I LIBRARY OF CONGRESS. I 



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f^^? V. l^pmigM^o J 

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I UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. J 



MISUNDERSTOOD, 



EMILY J. BEACH. 



BOSTON: 
PUBLISHED BY THE AUTHOR. 

1876. 



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CoPYRionr. 
EauLT J. Beach. 

1875. 



FBANKLIN PRESBi 
8TEBE0TVPED AND VUlNTEl) BT 

Ran II, Avr.uv, & Co. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 



I SAW her first in childhood's morn ; 

She seemed a quiet, gentle child : 
Of humble parents was she born, 

'Mid woodland scenes and heather wild. 

Her face could boast no beauty rare, 

Save the lustrous, timid eye. 
Which told a depth of soul was there, 

No chance observer would descry. 

She early learned to toil and strive ; 

For brothers, sisters, younger still, 
In quick succession did arrive : 

Her post, indeed, was hard to fill. 

She oft was taxed her strength beyond. 
Though wpll she loved the little ones. 

And proved herself a sister kind. 

If hurt or grieved, her soothing tones 

3 



4 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

"Were first to comfort and to cheer, 

To bring again the sunny smile, . 
To wipe away the falling tear, 

And from their sorrows to beguile. 

'Twas thus her early years were spent 
Within this humble cottage dome : 

Few there were who came or went 
To or from her peaceful home. 

Oft when her daily tasks were done, 

Out in the cool and shady wood. 
Beside a mossy bank, alone 

She sat in quiet, pensive mood. 

She loved those calm and holy hours 
When Nature's voice alone was heard. 

Save now and then, 'mid woodland bowers, 
The chirp of some dear little bird. 

'Twas here her inmost soul was filled 
With shadowy longings so intense. 

She felt she must, but could not yield ; 

Why did they come, and. Oh ! from whence ? 

She pondered oft, and tried to trace 

The source from Avhence they sprung to light ; 

O would they never, never cease ? 

And were they wrong, or were they right ? 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 

The more she thought, the more her brain 
Wiis puzzled with the question sore ; 

If wrong those feelings to maintain, 
Why not l)anished long before ? 

Did not her all- wise Father know 

Each germ of thought implanterl there? 

And would he thus a gift bestow 
Which might on\y prove a snare ? 

The knowledge which her soul did crave, 
And which had been so long denied, 

Must, sure, be right ; and He who gave 
Would see these longings satisfied. 

She prayed for patience still to wait 
His own appointed way and means. 

Struggling against an adverse fate 

Which seemed to bind her with its chains. 

These aspirations pure and high 

Were from all human eyes concealed : 

No thoughtless word, no deep-drawn sigh. 
The secrets of her heart revealed. 

Though fondly cherished in her home. 
She longed for wisdom and for power. 

O'er mountain heights at will to roam, 
And vaster, wider fields explore. 
1* 



b MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Though mortal eyes had never searched 
The inmost recess of her heart, 

Or touclied the tender chord which waked 
An answering tone, or could impart 

That truth and light for which she pined, 
One there was who heard her cry. 

And quickly ta her troubled mind 
Vouchsafed a tender, kind reply. 

Her brothers, sisters, older grown, 
Could in a measure fill her place, 

So out into the world, alone. 

With hopeful heart and eager face, — 

She sought in devious ways to find 

The path which would most sure impart 

True Avisdom to her willing mind, 

And strength of purpose to her heart. 

Her daily food, and raiment too. 
She still must labor to provide ; 

But, Oh ! her heart was light and free ; 
She feared no storms which might betide. 

Up with the lark at early dawn, 

Her morning duties to fulfill ; 
Then, lightly tripping o'er the lawn, 

To school she went with right good will. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 

The happiest hours her life had known 
Were spent Avitliin that schoolhouse dear ; 

Though some might call it poor and mean, 
She heeded not, nor did she care, — 

So long as there her heart's desire 
Seemed granted for a little space. 

Her gentle patience to acquire 

A knowledge which would soon eiface 

The ignorance she long had mourned. 
Did win her teacher's kind regard ; 

And thus a link of friendship formed 

Most highly prized ; and lessons hard, — 

Which oft had caused her brain to reel. 
Came easier now, since sure to meet 

Her teacher's warm, approving smile, — 
Praise deserving, Oh, how sweet ! 

It was a new sensation too ; 

For all her former years of life 
So full of care, and hardship too. 

Were one continued daily strife ; 

Yet no kind word of loving cheer 
Had blessed her on her weary way ; 

No warm and sympathizing tear 

Had soothed her witli its gentle sway. 



8 T\iisrNi)i:i{ST()<n>. 

Her lhou_L;hiriil iKilurc, sIioiil;' niul dui-p. 

Ilei' pnivnls nc'iM- liail understood: 
And so in silen('(< she did kei'|) 

Ilcr counsel ^\■ise, so friiunht willi {j^ood, 

While they did oil her feelings wound 
liy chiding lu-r for iicnsivc mood. 

Thoy meant it Idndly : yet she found 
She e\'i' had heen ""■ niisun(h'rsl()od." 

But now her warm and lo\iiig heart 

Did ([uickly open (i) rei'ei\(' 
Those kindly words, which did impart 

A hope and trust to slill believe 

God had in mercy heard her prayer. 

And given her friends both kind and trui> 

One there was. who longed to share 
Her every burden: Nct lie knew 

'Twerc useless at the |)resent time 
Such hofjcs and wishes to indulge, 

Since years and years must intervene 
Kre he could all his j)lans divulge. 

Like her, he struggled to improve 
Each shining moment as it passed; 

And ignorance and sin remove, 
Before its stains were rooted fast. 



MISUNDEIISTOOI). ' 

'J'licy botli woro youug, — .scarce uow fil'Lccii. 

His nature was to liorw rovorHc, — 
So ^lad and merry, iiill of" iVm ; 

His prcHcnee quickly did disjicrsc 

All gloomy shadows from Uie mind; 

Wljile Ills most iVank and nol>le inicn, 
His njannei- always g(;iii;d, kind, 

Told tluit liis Iicait was right vvilJiiii, — 

So tender, loving, warm, iuid true I 

Its purest impulse from aJjove : 
We miglit of liim most truly say, 

Kone could know him l;ut to love. 

His foi-m was comely and erect ; 

IJis face was round and wondious fair; 
His mild blue eye seemed to reflect 

The beauty of a soul uiost rare. 

-All nature woi-e for liiin a smile; 

I'he tender fhjwers, beneath his care, 
Did Jiiany a j^leasant hour beguile. 

And with their iVagrance scent the air. 

His hf;art was tuned to music sweet. 

Which fi'om its depths came bubbling forth. 

As if nnconsciously to greet 

'i'ljc Author of its heaverily birth. 



10 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

His voice, at times so low and sweet, 
Could, too, resound in songs of mirth ; 

And friends and neighbors oft did meet 
Around this warm and cheerful hearth, — 

Where kindness dwelt within each heart. 

And in harmonious music join. 
Bidding all anxious cares depart. 

While they did thus the strain prolong. 

He in his home was early taught 

The worth of knowledge to the mind ; 

In wisdom's path lie earnest sought 
The wa}' of life and truth to find. 

Unlike the parents of our friend, 
His own did prize the gift bestowed. 

And pray for grace to still attend 
Their darling one upon the road 

Which leads the soul to look beyond 
The trivial joys which earth can give. 

Their hearts with pleasure did rebound 
At Avhat they felt he might achieve. 

A time of sadness came at length, 

When he must leave the homestead roof; 

They wrestled with their God for strength. 
And prayed him still to warp and woof 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 11 

One by one each thread of life, 

And all its colors sweetly blend ; 
In every hour of toil and strife, 

Guiding safely to the end. 

We pass beyond the parting scene, 

And in a thriving Western town, 
Where knowledge he may quickly glean, 

Our noble hero proudly own. 

His purpose was a holy one : 

Like Jesus striving to fulfill 
The " law of love," and thus make known 

To all mankind His sacred will. 

Pressing onward, upward, ever, 

With strong desire to elevate. 
And thus from sinful bondage save 

Deluded souls "outside the gate," — 

While, from the source of love divine, 
Receiving much, and craving more. 

His life was made to brightly shine. 
By loving deeds he kept in store, — 

Proving, by his experience sweet. 
How much more blest it is to give, 

(For poverty and worth you often meet), 
Than 'tis from others to receive. 



12 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Though distant far from home and friends, 
Who sadly miss the absent one 

On whom their future hope depends, 
Not long it takes neiv friends to win. 

Yet old and cherished ones have still 
A sacred place within his heart ; 

No friendships new can ever fill, 
Or to his soul such joy impart. 

Indeed, himself had scarcely dreamed 
How strong and deep the love for her 

Whose gentle presence ever seemed 
The breathings of a spii'it pure, — 

Wafted from the realms of bliss, 
Fresh and sweet as morning flowers, 

Trembling with the dewy kiss 
Descended from celestial bowers. 

Did she regret his absence too ? 

And could she ever quite forget 
Those happy days so long ago ? 

It seemed a j'^ear, yea, more ; and yet 

'Twas only one short month ago 

He clasped her hand, and said good-by ; 

His voice was tender, soft, and low ; 
A tear-drop glistened in his eye, — 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 13 

Altliougli he struggled to be calm. 

The resolution he had made, 
His feelings almost overcame ; 

And, in that moment sweet and sad, — 

He longed his passion to reveal. 

Yet deemed it better and more wise. 

It for the present to conceal. 

But, had she dared her eyes to raise, 

The simple tale had all been told 

By the earnest, wistful gaze. 
Within his eyes so soft and mild, 

Enveloped in a misty haze. 

She was calm and self-possessed ; 

No look of hers, no word or tone, 
Betrayed the love so long repressed ; 

Her heart was his, and his alone ; 

But, Oh ! far rather it should break, 
Than e'er reveal unasked, unsought. 

Its love so tender and so meek : 

Perchance e'en now he loved her not, — 

Since words had never told her so ; 

His kindness did to all extend : 
Would he no more on her bestow. 

And treat her only as a friend ? 



14 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

But if instead, -witliin liis heart 

Enshrined above all other ones, 
Jler image could most joy impart, 

Ilcr lips pour forth most pleasing tones, — 

"Would he not now his love express ? 

The parting pang would surely then 
Be less severe ; and j-ears might pass 

Before they two should meet again. 

'Twas thus she mused when left alone ; 

And hope grew faint within her breast. 
As if her heart must needs atone 

For pent-up feelings, unexpressed, — 

Which could no longer brook control. 

Its aching chords seemed bursting now : 
No gleam of hope within her soul ; 

And wild despair and anguished woe 

Did for a season reign supreme, 

Despite her efforts at control. 
Oh ! were it but some transient dream, 

Which waldng thoughts might quick dispel ! 

But no. 'Twas all, Alas ! too true : 
Fond hopes which had her bosom filled 

Were fleeting as the morning dew. 

When her tempestuous grief was stilled, — 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 15 

A languor settled at the heart ; 

She tried in vain to overcome, 
And gloomy shadows bid depart : 

They lingered still as if a storm 

More fierce and angry than the last 
Were gathering with unwonted force, 

All future happiness to blast, 
Relentless in its wayward course. 

She poured her sorrows forth in prayer 
To Him who lends a listening ear, 

Imploring aid to meekly bear 

Whate'er his wisdom might decree. 

Scarce had her prayer ascended high. 

Before she sank to soft repose, 
Dreaming, perchance, of angels nigh. 

Soothing so gently all her woes. 

Her slumbers o'er, she waked at length, 

Her weary spirit much refreshed. 
Renewed strength, and added grace. 

Conveyed by angels ever blessed. 

Her life had now one burden more 

To bear in silence all alone. 
Till He who doth all things restore 

Should send relief unto " liis own." 



16 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Her voice was culm, lier face serene ; 

Unruffled was her placid brow, 
Revealing not the grief Avithin, 

AVliich made her heart to overflow. 

Alternate now 'twixt hope and fear, 
jyajs had lengthened into months, 

And months had made up all the year, 

Though long and slow had seemed its march. 

Our noble hero, Avhere is he ? 

And what the tidings from afar ? 
Has he no word of love for thee ? 

No interchange of thoughts to share 

With her, who, sad and lonel}^ now 
Would glad relinquish all for him ? 

Alas ! she fears it must be so. 

And struggling hope grows faint and dim. 

That one Avhose nature 'twas to be 

So frank and open, could love conceive, 

And still maintain without one plea, 

Her doubting heart could scarce believe. 

Through his parents, gentle, kind. 
She learned his efforts all had been 

With unfading laui'els crowned : 

Bright did his futiu^e prospects seem. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 17 

The waves of sorrow, deep and wild, 
Are sweeping o'er our sunny land ; 

And must this earth be so defiled 
With human gore, by human hand ? 

Oh ! God in mercy, tell us why 
Our loving ones must haste away. 

And for their country bleed and die ? 
We know e'en now thy hand can stay 

The furious storm which gathers near, 
And threatens soon to reach our homes : 

Our bosoms throb with anxious fear 
Lest some of our beloved ones 

Shall in the conflict take a part : 

And can we, must we, let them go, — 

A target for some piercing dart ? 
Oh, tell us not it must be so ! 

How can the gracious God above 

Behold, approve, such scenes of woe ? — 

A Father kind, a " God of love," 
Aclinowledged such by all below, — 

His tender mercies over all 

Who seek his kind protecting care, 

Letting not e'en a sparrow fall 
Unheeded, from the nether air. 

2* 



18 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

These musings iroiii the suddeucd heart 
Of her whose life we would portray, 

Her doubts and fears would not depart ; 
She felt men's souls were led astray 

And by a strong, resistless tide 

Of error and unmeaning sin : 
The gates of death were open wide, 

Oiu" bravest ones would soon rush in. 

Did He, our Saviour, when on earth. 
Such teachings to our race impart ? — 

He whose life and heavenly birth 
Do still remain a living chart. 

Were not his labors all of love, 
Unmingled with one taint of sin ? 

And did he not, all else above. 

Teach " Peace on earth," " Good-will to men " ? 

His precious life most freely give 

A ransom for the sins of all ? 
Then, if for all^ why not receive. 

And heed his kind and gentle call, — 

And do unto all other men 

As we would be by them done by ; 

Relieving sorrow, soothing pain. 
Our neighbor and our bn»ther trv 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 19 

To love as we ourselves do love ; 

Fulfilling thus the royal hxAV, 
And, like the angels bright above, 

All false and evil ways eschew ? 

God grant the time may quicldy come, 

When all the people of the earth 
Shall hail with joy the beat of drum 

Whose welcome sound shall herald forth 

The bright millennial dawn of peace; 

When all upon this earthly shore, 
Most thankful for the sweet release, 

The signs of war shall learn no more ; 

When nations far, with those more near, 
Shall join to bless the human race, 

Helping each his brother dear, 

Uplifting souls who fall from grace ! 

We trust our readers will excuse 
Digressing from our subject thus : 

The impulse we could scarce refuse, 
To here insert what seemed to us 

The plain, ungarnished, gospel truth ; 

Though at the time our heroine 
Herself knew not the heavenly birth 

Of thonsrhts and feelings so divine. 



20 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Nor would she then have dared express 
These sentiments which surely were 

Unto the public mind reverse, 

And which, if known to come from her, 

A pure and simple-minded girl. 

But little weight would have with those 
Whose giddy brains, all in a whirl, 

Could find no time for soft repose, — 

Much less to stop, and calm reflect ; 

But hasting toward the scene of strife, 
Their noble forms as soldiers decked, 

Yielding up thek precious life. 

Her brothers joined the battle fray, 
Enlisting of their own free will ; 

And 07ie dearer still than they 
Had hasted to obey the call. 

Among the cavaliers his choice : 
His stately form so round and full 

Might well a mother's heart rejoice 
(So nobly mounted, and so well, 

Upon hi« proud, majestic steed). 

If no danger did attend him. 
And if, with his, her mind agreed, 

'Twas duty's call which led him. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 21 

The time is fast approaching now, 
When he must leave all else beside : 

No prating kiss can he bestow 

On those, who, severed far and .wide. 

Would gladly kiss that noble brow, 
A parting blessing too would give. 

With brightest floAvers his pathway strew 
Until he reach the gates of heaven. 

Those " pearly gates " are 7wiv ajar. 

And soon will open to receive 
Many a martyred spirit fair. 

Their sorrows sweetly to relieve. 

No battle scene we need present. 

Since he, our brave and noble friend, 

Whose heart was filled with good intent. 
No human power should tear and rend. 

His heavenly Father willed it so, 
And called him to his home above, 

Where no continuous scenes of war 
Could mar the beauty of his love. 

He, with comrades brave and true, 
Was ordered to advance in haste. 

The fields were wet with evening dew, 
The sun was setting in the west, — 



22 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

While onward with increasing speed, 
Their pathway quite descending grade, 

When, lo ! a pause : one noble steed 
Lies panting there, and sore dismayed ; 

A luckless stone, both smooth and round, 
Has caused his sudden overthrow, 

Bringing quickly to the ground, 
And horse and rider laying low. 

His comrades quickly gathered round : 

They thought him dead, so pale and still he lay ; 

No outward bruise or hurt was found. 
But he had fainted quite away. 

His consciousness restored at last, 

He felt within a sickening ; 
One glance of tender love he cast 

Upon his friends, who tried in vain 

To calm their own well-grounded fears, 
In tender accents spoke his name : 

Alas ! their words and burning tears 
Both fell unheeded all the same. 

Another death-like swoon came on. 
Though not so lasting as the first ; 

His lips did move, and soon again 

He called for drink to quench his thirst. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 23 

A lonely cottage stood near by, 

To which they bore him in their arms ; 

While their prayers ascended high, 
Beseeching that no rude alarms 

Might break the calm and sweet repose 
They felt was stealing o'er his soul : 

Hi* life they knew was near its close, 
Its billows soon would cease to roll ; 

Those pearly gates would soon unfold ; 

And spirit-friends would gather near, 
Pointing unto the joys untold 

Awaiting him "just over there." 

For him did they no fears maintain, 
Since all his life had plainly shown, — 

" To live was Christ, to die was gain," 
Receiving: an immortal crown. 



^t> 



But still their hearts were filled with grief. 
When the sad hour for parting came. 

He, whose life had been so brief. 

Had sought not wealth or worldly fame ; 

He was serene, unto the end. 
Striving still to cheer and bless 

Each loving heart, each cherished friend, 
With tender words and soft caress, — 



24 MISU2TDERSTOOD. 

Although his heart was bleeding sore, 
Just for one last, one fond embrace ; 

To nestle, as in days of yore, 

So closely in that darling place, — 

"Which now, alas ! no more on earth. 
Would feel its kind compassions move. 

As before the heavenly birth, 
Revealing all a '• mother's love." 

Before these tidings reached his home. 
His form would lie beneath the sod ; 

His spirit pure be free to roam 

And mingle with the saints of God. 

He knew that in that mansion fair, 
Where all is peace, and joy, and love, 

His gentle Saviour would prepare 
An everlasting home above. 

For three long days he suffered on. 
And meekly bore the pain intense ; 

While from his lips escaped no moan, 
Or outward sign of deep distress. 

His cheek, which long had been so flushed 

With a crimson, hectic glow. 
Was pale and wan, its beauty crushed ; 

The pulse's beat was faint and slow. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 25 

His life WHS el)l)iiig fast away; 

All pain had left his weary frame ; 
So cahn and peaceful tliere he lay, 

Waiting — and then the angels came, — 

And bore his spirit far away 

Unto those realms of saintly bliss, 

Leaving but the form of clay, 

Which had no power to know or miss 

The precious gem it had enslirined, 

And of itself a counterpart. 
The tendrils which had once int wined 

So closely round that pulseless heart 

Must seek some higher, purer aim 
On which to wind its tender coils ; 

Reclining sweetly for a time, 

And resting from its earthly toils. 

Then "upward, onward," pressing still, 
New thoughts and aspirations given ; 

The tiny life-buds quickly fill. 
Expanding in the air of heaven. 

One pai'ting smile of fond regret, 

He deems a fitting tribute still 
For tlie casket fair which met 

And served his purpose long and well. 



26 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

One alone, of all his friends, 

Would he consent to have remain : 

Yet He who guides, and still attends 
His own in sickness and in pain, — ■ 

Did fill the hearts of those they met 
Within that lowly cottage home. 

With sympathy and sad regret 
For the patient, suffering one, — 

Whose steps had been directed there. 

And in their simple, loving way. 
They tenderly for him did care 

Through sleepless night and anxious da}'- 

His life so sweetly passed away. 
It seemed not meet to shed a tear. 

'Twas in the twilight, soft and gray, 
When angel spirits hovered near. 

His faithful friend was at his side, 

Singing, at his own request, 
" Softly now the light of day," — 

" 'Tis well ! " he cried, and sank to rest. 

Beneath a lovely whitewood tree. 
Standing within a field near by. 

He had wished his grave might be ; 
Though far from natal scenes and skv. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 27 

His kindly messages of love 

Left for " the dear ones all at home " 

Did his dear friend's compassions move, 
And make his task a painful one, 

Yet still he shrank not to fulfill 

A duty which no other one 
Could do so gently or so well ; 

Though hard it were to give such pain ; 

To feel those tidings, when received. 
Would fill with grief and anguish wild 

A mother's heart, most sore bereaved ; 
A father, too, whose love beguiled 

The prattling boy upon his knee, 

Holding ever from that day 
His firm affection, pure and free. 

As if 'twere by some magic sway. 

The sad, sad news could not have been 
More gently or more kindly given ; 

Indeed, there was no mournful scene 

For those sore hearts with anguish riven ; 

'Twas only birth to higher life : 

Their darling yet was all their own ; 

A few more years of toil and strife. 

And they would mount, and gladly join 



28 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

The many friends passed on before. 

The ties which bound them to the earth 
Were fast dissolving : one link more 

Is formed above ; and songs of mirth 

And holy joy are sweetly ringing, 

Welcoming the spirit home ; 
Softly wooing, sweetly winning, 

Unto that bright celestial dome. 

And what of her, our heroine ? 

How doth she bear this weight of woe ? 
Or has she felt her love decline 

From its warmth of long ago ? 

Forbear, my friends, and harbor not 
One thought so foreign to her soid : 

Her nature deep, so finely wrought. 
Was held by spirits' firm control, — 

Though at the time she knew it not, 
So deep and crushing ^A'as licr grief, 

All other feelings (piite forgot. 

Till God should grant her some relief. 

She sorroAvcd now as one bereft 

Of all that life holds dear on earth. 

Besought that she might not be left 
To bear, at length, this inward dcavtli. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 29 

If only she might hxy her down 

Upon that grave so far away, 
And there so sweetly, all alone, 

Just breathe her life in peace away, — 

No other boon her, soul would crave ; 

For death she felt were endless gain : 
Yet she must struggle to be brave, 

Smothering all this weary pain, — 

Showing not, by word or tone. 

The anguish of her heart within. 
No mortal spirit e'er had known 

How hard it was, had ever been, — 

To wear a calm and placid brow. 

When storms were raging fierce and wild. 

And pent-up tears Avould gladly flow 
From those soft eyes so kind and mild. 

Not that she deemed it wrong to weep. 
When tears alone could bring relief ; 

Since He who lives, and still doth keep 
A record of each secret grief, — 

Did weep aloud .in deep distress. 

Both for and with his mourning friends ; 

For them his sympathies express, 

While with their own his tears he blends. 

3* 



30 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

'Mid all her grief, one comfort still 
Reniainod to cheer and bless her soul, 

With grateful love her heart to fill. 

Toward •"• Him who doeth all things well." 

■Twas that the life of him so dear 
Had not been rudely snatched away 

By earthly hand or human power, 
Amid the din of battle-fray ; 

But in a calm and peaceful vale, 

Where nature blends its sweetest charms, 
Where holy memories love to dwell. 

Unbroken by earth's rude alarms, — 

Here, spirit-forms had neared the earth. 
And borne aloft the weary soul ; 

Rejoicing o'er its heavenly birth. 
And striving sweetly to control 

It, by the magic " law of love," 

Which God's own chosen and elect, 

Have learned to prize all else above, 
By reason of its sure eifect. 

And though no sculptured stone was reared, 
To mark his quiet resting-place, 

The spot was still no less endeared, 
Sheltered beneath the kind embrace 



MISUISDERSTOOD. 31 

Of tliat familiar tree, whicli bore 

Rich blossoms sweet, so fresh and pure, 

Reminders of that heavenly shore 

Where flowers shall wither nevermore, — • 

Transplanted by His tender care, 
Shall fadeless and immortal bloom ; 

There filling all the nether air 

With their most sweet and rare perfume. 

For three successive weary years 

She plodded on, and scarce could tell 

What were her hopes, or what her fears ; 
Save that her mem'ry loved to dwell 

Upon those days of calm delight. 
When sweetest interchange of mind 

Had filled her soul Avith hopes as bright 
As often fall to human kind. 

And oft each treasured look and tone, 
(With the friendship they expressed,) 

Were counted over one by one ; 

AVliile to her lips she sometimes pressed 

The dear mementos of the past. 

One little lock of shining hair 
Carrie first, as it had been the last, 

Though severed with a playful air. 



32 MISUNDERSTOOD, 

'Twas just the day before he went ; 

And though he gave no outward sign 
Of secret purpose or intent, 

Save by the asking in return 

Of just one little golden tress ; 

A talisman, he said, 'twould be. 
Reminding of those hours of bliss ; 

Then laughed aloud in childish glee. 

Though this had been a simple act, 
Performed as though in heedless sport, 

It gave fresh courage to her heart, 
And filled her soul with glad delight. 

'Tis said, no troubles singly come ; 

And surely thus it proved with her ; 
For sickness and distress at home 

Necessitated to defer, — 

Or, as she feared, give up entire. 

Her cherished plans to knowledge gain ; 

Her ardent love and strong desire 
An education to obtain. 

But with a cheerful, willing mind, 
Disrobed of every selfish aim. 

She quicldy to her. home returned. 
Performing well each duty plain. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 33 

This home was not the childhood one, 
'Mid woodland scenes and heather wild ; 

For to a quiet country town 

Her father's heart had been beguiled. 

Kind Providence had smiled upon 
And crowned his efforts with success. 

Economy and health had won 
Means enabling to possess 

A home congenial to his taste ; 

And, as his worldly cares grew less, 
His willing mind, so pure and chaste. 

Quickly did expand, and bless 

The gracious Giver who had shown 

In devious ways his loving care ; 
Sustaining by his power divine, 

When sore afflictions drew more near. 

The first which came, and opened all 

The fount of true paternal love, 
Till then not realized in full. 

Did all its depth reveal and prove. 

Sad tidings from the battle-field 

Filled hearts and homes with grief and pain ; 
Enrolled among the list of killed 

His second son, insttmtly slain. 



34 MISUNDEKSTOOD, 

His sisters grieved, liis mother wept ; 

And, tliougli liis father shed no tear, 
'Twas plain to see the sad effect 

Produced by losing one so dear. 

The regiment the brothers joined 
Was ordered to the battle's front ; 

And he among the first consigned 
By the foeman's cruel dart, — 

To a nameless soldier's grave. 

The fatal shot had pierced his heart ; 
No human power had skill to save, ■ 

Or for one moment to impart 

A conscious thought unto his soul. 

His brother, standing near his side, 
Strove well his feelings to control. 

And by this sad decree abide. 

He was a brave and noble lad. 

Shrinking never, nor turning back 

From danger's path when duty led ; 
His zeal and courage knew no lack ; 

Though his impulsive nature gave 
But little chance for sober thought. 

He deemed all soldiers true and brave, 
Who for their country's freedom fought. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 35 

'Twas in the year of sixty-five ; 

The cruel war was near its close ; 
Glad hearts were waiting to receive 

Their loving ones ; and calm repose 

Was settling o'er the land once more ; 

Many homes were desolate 
Since their loved ones nevermore 

Would pass within their threshold gate. 

Alas for him, the first-horn son ! — 

Who turned not back, nor shrank with fear,^ 
Until the victory was won, 

And he his home began to near ; 

Then a contagious fever seized 

And prostrate laid his robust frame. 

Its ravages were not appeased. 

Since it assumed its direst form, — 

Raging with unwonted force, 

While its unconscious victim lay 
Regardless of his future course, 

Tossing wildly to and fro ; 

Now springing up in eager haste, 

Shouting forth the battle-cry ; 
Then sinking down in sad unrest, 

Moaning still, and murmuring low ; 



36 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Repeating oft that name so sweet, — 
" My mother, O my mother clear! " 

Alas ! thy voice sliall never greet 
On earth again thy mother's ear. 

'Twas not until his form was laid 

Beneath the hills far, far away, 
Within a grave by strangers made, 

(While they at home were blithe and gay,' 

Preparing for the absent one), 
JThat this sad terror-stricken news 

Did reach that peaceful, happy home, 
Its thrilling sadness to infuse. 

The mother's heart grew faint and sick ; 

Pier delicate and weary frame. 
Which, at the best, of late was weak, 

Refused its labors to perform, — 

Sinking beneath the weighty load, 
Despite her strong, unyielding will ; 

And she was forced to keep her bed, 
No longer able to fulfill 

Her daily round of toil and care. 

'Twas then she felt the urgent need 
Of one to soften and to share 

Her burdens, which were sore indeed. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 37 

None could so fondly, sweetly soothe 
This heart, bereaved and full of woe, 

As the gentle daughter who 

Relinquished self, her love to show. 

Her filial duties occupied 

Her time and thoughts most fully now ; 
Indeed, it can not be denied 

The change was beneficial, too, — 

To her as well ; since she of late 

Had suffered from a troublous cough. 

Which threatened soon to seal her fate. 
Unless, perchance, 'twere warded off. 

She long had been so close confined, 
'Tvvas sweet to breathe the air again. 

Her presence and her love combined 
To help her mother to regain 

Her wonted strength, and still to own 
How many blessings yet remained. 

She found her life had selfish grown 

To thus give way to grief unfeigned, — 

While other ones had claims as strong 

Upon her fond maternal care. 
She cherished not intended wrong, 

And kindly labored to repair 



38 MISUNDKRSTOOD. 

That whicli she thoug-litlessly liad done 
The hiving ones she still retained. 

Their softened liearts were quickly won, 
Wliile she uneonseiously had gained , 

A noble victory over self; 

And day by day the danghter pure 
Found beneath the sheltering roof 

Less sordid trials to endure, — 

And nmeh more leisure to devote 

To exercise in open air, 
And thus her failing health promote, 

Likewise in time to quite restore. 

She now gave heed, and took delight, 

In cultivating [lowers rare ; 
Their rapid growth refreshed her sight, 

Repaying for her tender care, — 

Cheering many a sick-bed room 

Willi their sweet and fragrant breath ; 

Chasing far the shades of gloom, 
Aiding in the inward growth 

Of grace and beauty of the soid ; 

While nothing gave unto our friend 
iMore i)eace of mind than to enroll 

Her willing service so reilned. 



MISUKDEllSTOUD. 39 

Whore fevered pain and .sickness were. 

Iler nature seemed a fitting one, 
Just suited to befriend and eheer ; 

And by her gentle smiles she won 

The confidence and love of all 

Who came within her social sphere : 

No little child, however small, 

Showed in her presence aught of fear, — 

Since she did never pass one by 

Without a lovitig word or smile ; 
And oft their little liearts beat liigli 

While listening to some pleasing lale 

Repeated for their ears alone ; 

She joining in their sportive glee, 
They brimming o'er with mirth and fun. 

As happy children e'er should be. 

No one of all her friends below, 

Had known or guessed the secret wound. 

So deep engraved, that even now 

No healing balm could well be found: 

Thougli time might sear, the scar would still 
Remain, while earth and earthly things 

Did hold her captive at her will, 
Or, rather, at the will of those 



40 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Who even more than she remained, 
In ignorance of Nature's laws, 

Which govern and control the mind. 
Aided hy tlie great First Cause. 

One blessed truth seems fixed upon 
Her mind receptive, Unawares ; 

"Fis that the loved ones all agone. 

Do like the bright and twinkling stars, - 

E'er keep their watcliful, tender eyes 
Open to behold their dear cfnes, 

Beneath the calm and azure skies ; 

Though far removed their gentle tones,- 

And forms once dear, their presence still . 

Did seem at times so very near, 
It made her inmost being thrill 

AVith sweet emotions ; not one fear 

Did mingle with or mar her joy ; 

Instead a strong desire to live 
So pure and chaste, no earth-alloy 

Might her debase, and sorrow give 

Those bright angelic ones above, 
Who still retain for us below 

A sympathetic, changeless love. 
Surpassing far what mortals know. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 41 

These musings silcnUy were kept, 

Coniinfj^ to lier wIhmi all alone, 
III laidiii^lit liours wliilc otluirs slept, 

Or vvlicji tlic ^^loaiiiiiiL;' liud bog'un. 

If(;r Jionic on<;s ]iow W(jrc (]uite restored 
To loi'iiior lieuldi and |)ea(;(' ol' mind ; 

TJKjir trials, patiently (iiidiu'cd, 

Had served to make tliem feel resij^ned, — 

And bow submissive 'neath the rod. 
Assured th(;ir deep afdietion came 

By and through the w^ill of God, 
And he would sanctify the same. 

Al)out iJiis time a letter came 

From distant friends whose early yeai's 

Had all l)een spent within a jionie 
Of slight pretence, adjoiuing' theirs; 

From thence unto a Western town, 
Tli(;y moved, a tliriving, hcaltlifid one, 

(And wliieh hiid since a city grown) 
Beginning life, as 'twere, an(jw, — 

So marked and pleasing was the cluinge : 

Here all indted to maintain 
A friendly feeling, and arrange 

Their avocations so to join 

,4* 



42 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Each with other for the good 

And sure advancement of the whole ; 
Piomoting thus a kindly mood 

Of thought and feeling in the soul. 

Society thus based upon 

True principles of sterling ivortJi^ — 
Instead of iveaJth, Avhich does alone 

Too oft control the minds of earth, — 

Was more congenial and refined, 
Sustaining, too, more liberal views 

On subjects which have been confined, 
(Until of late), striving rather to infuse 

Within the souls of all alike. 
An earnest craving for the truth. 

Free from errors deep and dark. 
Which so oft impede the growth 

Of higher, nobler thoughts and aims, 
Leaving, too, the trace of guilt, 

Where ignorance alone is blame. 

Though oft it leaves its sad effect, — 

Producing still a like result 

To that where fully understood. 

Yet, sad to say, oft heeded not. 
Even by the so-called good. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 43 

In speaking thus of people here, 

We take them only as a whole : 
Exceptions must, as everywhere, 

Be found unto the general rule. 

A letter came, I said, to them, 

From their dear cherished early friends, 

One kindly urging them to come. 

And for their coolness make amends, — - 

This coolness only brought about 

By living thus so far apart. 
Their sentiments exchanging not : 

Both parties still were true of heart. 

The invitation was for all ; 

But the kind parents of our friend 
A journey loved not over-well. 

And so most willingly resigned 

Their claims unto their daughter true. 
Since not convenient for them all 

To leave at once ; and well they laiew 
How gladly she would heed the call. 

And here we might as well confess. 
That, mingled with parental love, 

Was something which, more or less. 
Resembled pride, although the groove 



44 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Through which its tiny fiber passed 
Did seem so indistinct and small, 

A shadow dim it onh'- cast, 

AVhich threatened not to disannul 

More solid virtues of the mind : 
Nor was there danger for herself 

In this respect ; we clearly find, 
Standing forth in bold relief, — 

A self-reliance yet unmixed 

With aught pertaining to conceit. 

While in her heart was firmly fixed 
Sound principles, too rarelj'' met. 

What wonder, then, that she should feel 
A soul -inspiring, near delight 

Aroinid her inmost being steal. 
Opening up the treasures bright 

Of heart and mind so long concealed ? 

And 'neath the genial warmth and glow 
Of friendship pure, so oft revealed. 

Expressed in ways to kindly show 

How glad their welcome, and how true. 
How sweet the harmony of thought. 

Blending so softly as it grew. 

Till all unconscioivslv it wrought 



Wki^-^il.^ 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 45 

A pleasing, happy change to all 

Who circled round the family hearth, 

Permeating even heart and soul 
With its sweet and gentle breath. 

Some time elapsed ere she had learned 
The state of their religious views ; 

'Twas better so, lest she had spurned, 
Or, as they feared, might quite refuse 

To listen to the truth which they 

Had glad accepted long ago. 
Its strong foundations laid for aye, 

Fearing nought from friend or foe. 

Unconsciously, from day to day. 

Her thoughts assumed a wider range ; 

Her deep-set eyes did plainly say, — 

" If aught there be that's new and strange, — 

O, tell me now, I prythee, all ; 

For by thy manner I perceive 
That thou art striving to conceal 

That which I'm longing to receive." 

They, too, now felt the time had come. 
In which they might with safety dwell 

Upon the glorious, happy theme. 
So lonef an inmate of their souls. 



46 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

It is a clear autumnal day, 

And Nature wears her gayest robes, 
While beneath the cloudless sky 

No burning heat, no wind disturbs 

The leaflets on the old oak-tree 

AVhich shelters with its friendly boughs 
A mansion fair in some degree. 

Although its chief attraction grows 

Fiom intercourse Avith those within ; 

For here a spirit-medium 
By her heavenly gift doth win 

The souls of those who daily come, — 

And listen to the counsels wise 

Coming from the " higher spheres," 

Through this channel which supplies 
" Living waters," while it cheers 

The weary, hoart-sick ones of earth, 
AVho in darkness long have pined, 

Regardless of the heavenly birth 

AVhich they who seek shall surely find. 

'Twas here they led our friend that day. 
Persuading her no harm would come, 

The}'- thinking that no better Avay 
Existed to present her claim. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 47 

And, if tliey judged lier heart ariglit, 

Her mind was open to receive 
Some rays, at least, of heavenly light, 

Beyond what she did now perceive. 

My gentle reader, fear thou not 

To still pursue this simple tale. 
I 2)romise fair no stain or blot 

Shall here be found to mar thy soul. 

Then come with me, and listen, pray, 
(While all around is hushed and still). 

To what the angel voices-say. 
As they lovingly fulfill 

Their holy mission unto her, 

SoAving deep within her soul 
Most precious seed, which soon will stir 

And spring above the mellow soil 

So rich, so deep, and well prepared, 
Putting forth their tender leaves : 

They only need to watered be. 

To yield abundant golden sheaves. 

Her friends, to make the matter sure, 

Had left her to proceed alone ; 
Just only guiding her so far 

As needful, to the way make plain. 



■43 Mi^r:sDFJ?^TOi^i>. 

A ix»rfeot strang>t>r m the place, 
Ko clew of what her life had Kvn, 

^o oppvxrtimitv to twee. 

Or the s^Iu^htesi knowledge gfi^in 

Of her evwdition in tlie jx^j^t : 
Her jvrx^ent, tvx\ vi-^\$ all olv^enre : 

And not one ray of light w-^ijs cast. 
Which evnild rvfleet or help secure 

The inmost secrets of her sc>nl. 
So strangely quiet w«Si the place, 

So svxnhing v\-j»s the sweet contivl. 
It soouiovl to oariWy thoughts oi";^so, — 

Ai\d bivathe an atm^-Viphoi-e v.>f hne, 
AVhile angel spirits hovered near. 

Descending frv^m the spheres above. 
And gave nntc» this friend so dear, — 

Proofs of their nnchangij\g love. 

The first which was to her described 
Stvxxl very neiir, and held aWve 

Her he:^d a w-r\:v:;irh of lilies fair. 

Her i\^lvs Nvo:v pi;rx' av.d s;\n",o>s white. 
The wavy ringlets of her luiir 

Came rippling down so golden bright. 
Her visage, too, was very fair. 



IMlStiNIH'M.'SI'ooi). 



49 



Slic |)I;ic(mI the wi'cnlli ii|i(iii licr licitd, 
A 11(1 culled licr hy ( lie lcii<i('r inline 

or sislcr deal', \n Idle (Ims she Siiid : — 
''• 1 know my looks tire no( tlu^ sanic 

As wlien I Jefti i\[c eiirllily sphere; 

Vor (luMi I was an iiifaiil- small, 
S(^iire(^ old eiionL;'h (o heed your cace; 

liiil here Wv learned to |)ri/,e it all, — 

And trust thai I may yri repay 
^'on^ fond devotion, t(Mi(U'r, true. 

As in \(>nr arms so weak 1 lay, 
My feeble |)nlse, it fee Me r grew ; 

And Ihns I [)assed iVom earth away, 
Too youn_L;' to realize the ehang-c, 

\r{ learniiiL;' still, IVom day to day, 
IlaxiiiL;- \\cvc n \Nider ranj^e, — 



A freer atmospliere to breathe, 
C\)nditions which di<l far e.veeed 

Th(> I'cst -whieh earth bidow eould give. 
And hearts to feel my every need, — 

And gently guide my steps aright, 
Teaeliing sweetly how to live 

In my iionu* so fair and bright, 
And everlasting praises give 



50 MISUNDERSTOOD, 

To Him who rules both heaven and earth. 

No longer now will I detain, 
Since one is here, of far more worth. 

And who to thee will much explain." 

The voice of lier through whom this came 
Now changed its tone : she firstly gave 

A full description and the name 

Of him, the youthful friend' so brave, — 

Whose memory was cherished still 
As one too spotless, pure, and bright,. 

Upon this sinful earth to dwell, 

Where worldly cares so dim the sight. 

He spoke of old familiar scenes. 
So well remembered by them both ; 

Of wooded hills, and deep ravines. 
Where they alone had wandered forth. 

He then repeated, word for word, 
Poetic lines she still preserved, 

JNIementos of her hopes deferred. 
And dee])ly on her soul engraved. 

He told how true had been the love 
He'd felt for her in years agone, 

Although he failed that love to prove 
While dwelling here this earth upon. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 61 

That love, he said, shouhl never wane, 
Grow dim, or fade, in all the years 

Which now seemed like to intervene, 

Ere she would reach the " higher spheres." 

He knew the grief and anguish wild, 

Her wearv spirit had endured ; 
He saw how pure and undelilcd 

Had been the life Avhich now secured 

These sweet communings Avitli the blest; 

That, through these fiery trials sore, 
A gift she knew not she possessed 

Had been developing most sure, — 

And would ere long afford a source 

Of happiness and good alike 
To sorrowing ones whose earthly course 

Had failed to satist)/ the heart. 

Pie said that soon a change would come 

Unto herself, a pleasing one. 
He felt assured, — which would combine 

The truths he labored to make known. 

The gates, he saw, Avere opening now ; 

jVnd all looked very bright around. 
Showing her future life below 

\\'ould with happiness rebound. 



0-2 MISri^EESTOOD. 

She had a nnssion to perform. 

Through lier mediiimistic powei-s, 

Whioh, he said, Avere very strong". 
Though not devek'iped yet m full. 

Thev were like to the rose in bud. 

Which soon would all its leaves unfold. 

Breathing fragmnce where it stcx^d, 
A thing of heauty to behold. 

He asked hov, did she not droaut dreams? 

See visions lioat befoiv her eyes ? 
Have thotights eome rushing through her brains 

Thoughts so intense they did surprise ? 

Kor could she tell from whence they came. 
Or what their presence did denote : 

He then endeavoreil to explain, 
^Vht/ so distant and remote 

Seemed these thoughts and feelings now : 
Mysterious though they still might be. 

She soon would learn xotWI and hioii\ 
And in the future to fori'9t't\ — 

^hiuy changes coming through 
This wondrous dispensation new : 

And she (^\\ hose life had been so true^. 
With others numberinsx not a few. — 



MISrXDEK STOOD. 63 

Was needed to promote the cause 

So vital to the human race : 
A firm foiindatiou, and a wise. 

Was being laid to take the phice 

Of social evils in disguise ; 

Also, in time to do away. 
In part at least, "with men-made laws. 

Which now hold such unbounded sway. 

A narrow and contracted sphere, 

She ne'er was~ made to dwell within : 

Her light would shine wondi-ously clear. 
When she her life-work did begin. 

He ui-ged her to consider well. 

And to her spkit-friends give heed. 

Assuring all would then be well. 
And she would reap a rich reward. 

Much more he longed to tell to her, 
But time forbade ; though, if she now 

Had any questions to prefer. 

To answer them he would gladly try, — 

And then give place to a dear friend 

Who had the gift of poesy, 
And would improvise and blend 

The lights and shades of former days 



54 MISUNDEE STOOD. 

As seen by her from that bright sphere 
While he yet dwelt upon the earth. 

No wonder that our friend did fear 
To break the spell by putting forth 

Questions, even if the time 
Had not been limited : she felt 

Assured these teachings so sublime 
Would far more wisdom to her yield. 

Still she could not quite resist ; 

And sweet indeed the interchange 
Of sympathy. But we desist ; 

Nor would inyade, but give free range 

Unto their thoughts a little space, 
While sacred to themselves alone 

These precious moments of true bliss, 
Where hearts united blend as one. 

Suffice to say, if there had been 

One shade of doubt within her soul, 

Regarding all those powers unseen, 
'Twas far removed as Northern Pole. 

Her secret thoughts were all laid bare ; 

The depths did yield their treasures too 
Which long had lain quite buried there, 

Securely locked fi-om mortal view. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 55 

Now comes a voice low and pensive. 

Sweet and clear, softl}^ rippling. 
Gently mnrmuring its cadences 

All so pure and soul-refreshing ; 

In language seeming not of earth, 

So beautiful the harmony. 
So kind tlie sentiments put forth, 

In sweet, angelic poetry. 

Our feeble powers would fail to give 

A faint conception of the same : 
So here we take a friendly leave 

Of spirit-friends a little time. 

All tliis, with much we've left untold. 
Within the space of one short hour 
Was given through her (the medium) fully 

controlled, 
And guided too, by spirit-power. 

These revelations new and strange 

Did soothe and cheer our gentle frieiul ; 

Her thoughts assumed a wider range. 
As she murmured, " Homeward bound." 

She felt more knowledge she had gained 

Within this little space of time. 
Than she had all her life attained ; 

So mysterious and sublime 



56 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Were these teachings fraught with good ; 

They also raised her self-esteem, 
Since she had once been understood ; 

Nor was it but an idle dream 

Which soon would vanish from her sight, 
And leave behind an empty void ; 

But each succeeding day and night 
She felt would slowly, surely add 

Increasing brightness to the flame 
So lately kindled in her soul, 

While life itself would have an aim 
Which would her future acts control. 

The time of her appointed stay 
Is drawing near ; and, at its close. 

She, with a cheerful heart and gay, 
Seeks for a rest in home repose ; 

While uppermost within her mind 
Is the new-found and glad delight. 

Which ever there will be ensluined, 
And soon will call for further light ; 

That which has been so well received 
Will furnish soul-food for a time ; 

Already much has been achieved 
By opening up the way sublime. 



MISUNDEESTOOD. • 57 

Her leisure hours are all employed 
In gleaning knowledge which pertains 

To the advancement, as portrayed, 
Of piirer motives, higher aims. 

Much of this knowledge was obtained 

From writings said to be inspired 
By spirits pure, who still retained 

Free requisites alone required ' 

To manifest and surely prove 

How great an influence they hold 

O'er friends whose sacred ties of love 
More precious are than links of gold. 

Not least among her treasured books 

Was that dear one of sacred lore, 
Holy Bible, " Book of books," 

Shedding light for evermore. 

She read and pondered, oft amazed 
To see how clear were made to her 

The passages obscure and dazed 
A little length of time before. 

Some hidden meaning oft would flash 

Across her now awakening mind, 
Like a meteor's sudden dash. 

Leading her onward, still to find 



58 MISUXDEKSTOOD. 

Deeper mysteries explained. 

In all the sacred pages there 
One fixed, eternal truth remained, — 

Strong evidence of 82}h'it-2)ou't'r, — 

*Twas found in both the old and new ; 

Although her chief delight was hi 
The precious teaching-s all aglow 

AVitli Jesus' love : whose poAver to win 

Consisted not in ruh'S and fornis^ 

But tender pity, purest love 
For all his race : no blinding storms 

Could intercept, or fail to prove 

How vastly great the good achieved 

. By precept and example too. 
What comfort to the heart bereaved. 
When boAved with anxious care and woe, ■ 

To know that One is ever near, 
Who contemplates our state below. 

And also bends a listening ear 
So glad his sympathy to show ! 

His precious name will ever live. 
And will, to nations yet luiborn. 

Be heralded all names above. 

Although, while here, he met with scorn. 



MISUNDEK STOOD. 59 

Few, then, except the hnvly ones, 
"Woukl listen to his counsels wise, 

Or heed his soft and gentle tones. 
But all his teachings did despise, — • 

And did most shamefully entreat. 

Because his liberty of speech 
Wa« too advanced for them to meet. 

Or yet their stony hearts to reach. 

Not e'en tlie miracles performed 

Could them convince of spirit-powei ; 

Unless, perchance, he was suborned 
By some satanic demon power. 

Alas that man should be so blind 
As once to harbor such a thought ! 

That his Majesty seeks to find 
And devour, or crush outright. — 

Every high and noble aim, 

' We will not dare to quite dispute. 
Since he has always had this name. 
And smce his deeds do not refute. 

But that he doth or ever can 

More power possess than Crod himself. 

We (^0 deta/, and will maintain ; 
And what a kind and sweet relief 



60 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

It is, to know that mjglit}^ truth 

3Iust and tvill prevail at last ! 
Though error's chain so strong, forsooth, 

Now holds it mth a mighty grasp, — 

The time will come, we trust and pray, 
(And soon our faith is strong to feel,) 

When f/ood will hold a boundless sway, 
Crushing beneath its sacred heel 

The ignorance of former days. 
With present systems, so debased 

By greed of gain and worldly praise, 
A close inspection finds erased 

Much that seemeth to afford 

Protection to the poor aggrieved ; 

While in its place, most deftly hid, 
Deceit and meanness have achieved 

A selfish rule, which gives to those 
Who do already have their fill, 

And live in sjjlendor, at their ease, 
Wldle tJiose who labor '-'•foot the bill.'^ 

God grant the time may surely come. 
When " equal rights " may be secured! 

No cruel bondage then for some. 

And that " some," one-half the world. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 61 

Yea, more we crave, that these same ones 
May learn wherein they are deprived 

Of half their own inheritance, 

And are in other ways aggrieved, — 

Also in what their " rights " consist, 

And how and when they should be used. 

When to yields when to resist ; 
Suffering not to be abused, — 

Either by themselves or other, 

The right to think, to feel., to kmnv, 

And for themselves to judge far better, 
(If their intents are wise and true) 

Than those who do not, can not know, 
The motive power concealed within, 

Since God doLh on us each bestow 
Gifts and mercies all our own. 

No two in this created world, 

Hath forms or features just alike ; 

And so it is with hearts and minds, 
Each to the other so unlike. 

What to one is " meat and drink," 
Another may sure " poison " find ; 

While scenes at which you start and shriak 
May serve to soothe another's mind. 

6 



(>_ MlSlNPF.KSrOOP. 

1)7/// "tis so, wo o;m not toll, 

l^nloss to loaoh us (7Mr«V//, 
As it had ought, and suroly will. 

As wo advanoo in purity. 

Thou hasto. I say, tho olorious day 

Whon fVoo unirannnolod thought shall bo 
^lost gladly woIoouuhI. ami inako way 

For truth to follow, bold and tVoo. 

As, whon our Saviour HvoaI on t\irih. 
All who ilid daro to follow him. 

C'r to aoknowlodgo all his worth, 
Woro oluotlv hold iu low esteem, — 

So at tho present time wo tnid 

A like derision hurhnl at tln>so 
Wlu^ tVooly do express their mind 

(.)n subjoets whioh tho world vot'use 

As yet, to tnvn must bo laid bare. 

Ere pollution's waves ure stay oil. 
That iui\ooenoo no longer bear 

The sitis of those who have botrayovl 

l>y th.oir ntagio, subtle power. 

Thou oast aside as worthless ipiiio, 

Tho erusliod and drooping llower. 

Whoso brightest dav seems endless ui^ht. 



MisrNni'.KsrooD. 63 

Since all which sorvod (o make litV sweet 

Is turned to bitterness and woo, 
She Ibrced to Avander through the street; 

No one lo ]Mty, or bestow 

A kindly look, a word o\' lovo ; 

J<\)rMk('>i written on iier brow : 
Alas I she wishes not lo live. 

And feels that (Undh eoimvs sure, it slow. 

But here we leavt> llu"S(> painful scenes. 

Which oft have caused our hearts to Ihrill, 

Unable to devise the means 

With wliich to overet)me the ill ; 

Unless,, jicrchance, when woman learns 

To understand and kirnw hi'rsc(t\ 
And then w'ith resolution turns 

From all less pure than she herself. 

Nor is this the only subject. 

Which poor mis^'uided minds refuse 

To even dare invcstiu'ate. 

Lest if they did they might infuse 

AVithin their own untainted souls, 

SiMuc new ideas in advaui'o 
Of wiial the ])nl)lit' mind controls, 

XOoi-o-ettinn" that in all things else 



64 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Pro<prssion is our highest aim. 

Or, if not, it shouhl be so ; 
Since for this purpose, we maintain. 

Our JNIaker phiced us here below, 

Iniphmting in our being", germs 

Of thought which need our watchful care ; 
And as our higher nature yearns. 

The more exalted views to share, — 

Shall we the spirit rudely crush. 
Saying. Thus far thou mayest go, 

But not one step outside the camp 
Built eighteen huntlred years ago ? 

Yet what said He the " Holy One '•' ? 

" 'Tis needful that I go away. 
Or else no Comforter will come, 

For to abide with you alway. — 

And unto }T)ur remembrance bring 
All things which I have said to you ; 

Spirit of truth, on heavenly wing, 
He all things shall teach to you. 

But him the world can not receive. 
Because it seeth, neither knoweth 

He whom the Father then will give ; 
But ye do know, for lic dwcllcth, — 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 65 

And shall over bo in you. 

jNIany things I have to say, 
But ye can not bear them now ; 

Therefore 'tis I go away. 

Believe on* me, and ye may do 

All the works which I have done ; 

Yea, and greater works than these: 
Only let your faith be strong. 

It is the Father dwells in me ; 

These are his works ye see me do. 
Believe ye this, and ye shall know 

I will for ever dwell in you. 

I am the vine ; the vine is true. 

Ye are the branches ; and the fruit 
Must and will be borne by you ; 

And I would ye bear much fruit. 

As the Father hath loved me, 

So I also have loved you ; 
And so 'tis meet also that ye 

Should one another love most true. 

It is not you have chosen me ; 

But I it is have chosen you. 
My friends ye are, if only ye 

AVill do the works I bid you do. 



66 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

This I commcancl : that ye shall love 
One another, though the world 

Despise and hate you for that love. 
Forget thou not at me was hurled 

Contempt, derision, scorn, and hate ; 

And that without the slightest cause. 
But fear thou not, nor mourn thy fate : 

The reason plainly is because 

Thou art chosen from the world. 

The world would surely love its own ; 
But ye are not now of the world, 

And so must bear its hate and scorn. 

Yea, the time, I sa.j, will come, 

When whosoever killeth you 
Will think a service he hath done 

To God the Father, wise an:l true. 

These things I now have told to you, 

That, when the time shall come, you may 

Remember all I've said to j^ou ; 
And also fearlessly obey. 

In me alone ye may have peace, 

Sore tribulation in the world ; 
Yet I bid thee, ' Be of good cheer,' 

For ' I have overcome the world.' 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 67 

A little while ye shall not see, 

Because I to the Father go. 
I in him, and you in me ; 

Abide thou there, and I will sliow, — 

In time to come, more plainlj^ still ; 

In proverbs then I'll speak no more, 
But teach in love, the Father's will. 

Who shall, in time, all things restore." 

And thus we might go on at length. 

Did we not fear to give or take 
From his most blessed word its strength. 

Or to its sweet connection break. 

We only gave you this to show, 

What then was given, now proves true, 

Though uttered centuries ago. 
For persecutions then, as now, — 

Or rather wow, as then, attend 

All who do dare come boldly forth ; 

, Fearing neither foe nor friend. 
But firmly standing by the truth 

As it has been to them revealed. 

Many now do shrink with fear ; 
And thus allow to be congealed 

Their purest thoughts, lest they appear 



0)8 MISUNDKR STOOD. 

Unto the wovUl, wliuh still thov love, 
]\Iost strangely to luivo boon nuslod. 

^Ini'h thoy might do tlio truth to prove. 
But ehoose to live a he instead. 

Not so our friend and heroine. 

Though tlery trials did await. 
Severe indeed the discipline 

Thiough whieh she passed on ihis aeeount, 

But still her eourage did not fail. 

As all alone she stood the st onn ; 
No eartldy iViend eould her prevail 

To turn aside, or feel alarm 

At what thev all unwisely thought 

A vain delusion, and a snare : 
AVith tears and prayers they ^*"ainly sought 

To win her back, and still restore. 

1 said alone she stood the storut : 
1 would reeall: 1 meant not so, 

Exeept so far as earthly form 
Oould its teeble powers bestow. 

She was upheld, and daily led. 

And by a strong and mighty jnnver. 

She knew her thoughts were born of (lod, 
Siuee thev eaeh day did grow more pure. 



IMISUNDKKS'I'OOI). 69 

Slu" 1()ni;'('(l (() Ikivc Ium' dear ones know, 
And join with her in j^lad I'cscarcli 

For heavenly wis(h)ni, all a!j;'lo\v 

\\'i(h trnlhs wlTu'li \\i)nl(l llu'ii' sonls refresh. 

Ai iiis(. slio (11(1 convovso with some, 

Hut- fonnd i( was oF no avail ; 
Vov even in her own dear lioino 

They (lid most ernelly assail, — 

And vex llieir ri^'lileous souls, \( she 

E'er did by clianee or olherwiso 
A favorite book or ])a])cr lay 

Whore it could meet their neighbor's eyes. 

Tlu>y seemed to feel it a disgrace 

To even harbor one who dar(Ml 
This s(ran!;'e, new doctrine lo (Mnbrace. 

'I'heir minds were wholly un|)re])ai'(Hl 

To give the subj(H't e'en a thought. 

Had she depended now on those 
Who, in former days, had sought 

To gain her friendship, she must lose 

Her faith and trust in earthly friends, 
Since many passed her coldly by ; 

While olluu's said, " My fate depends 
On keeping clear of yours and you." 



70 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

1 do not say, nor will infer, 

That slie could bear without a pang 
These cruel slights, unjust to her, 

And in tlieniselves entirel}^ wrong. 

A nature sensitive as hers 

Would surely sink in deep despair, 
Did not One higher and more wise 

Sustain and help to nieeklv bear. 

Scarce a member of llie ehuveh, 

To which she had so long been joined, 

Did the hand of friendsliip reach. 

When she at home Avas close conliued 

By feeble health, for weary months, 

And seldom able to attend 
The fondly-cherished, dear old church. 

Where heretofore her voice did blend 

With other ones in harmony. 

No welcome or familiar tone 
Did greet her ear, and kindly say, 

"■ We're glad to see you back again." 

Bnt she did tread, as one alone. 
Those dear familiar, sacred aisles. 

Where all seemed purposely to shun, 
Instead of winning bv their smiles. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 71 

In silence did she bear it all ; 

None ever knew the pain it gave, 
Save Him who sees the sparrow's fall, 

And the angels bright above. 

One earthly sonrce of comfort still 
Remained to cheer her on the way. 

Those new-found friends she loved so well. 
In their home far, far away, — 

Did in their corrcsjiondonce tell 
Of many things which did delight 

And sweetly soothe her weary soul. 
They did most cordially invite 

Her to return at any time. 

And to abide with them at length ; 

Considering their cheerful home 

As her own. They hoped her strength 

Would be restored, and she would iind 

The change a beneficial one. 
Both to her body and her mind. 

The latter, hungry and alone. 

The atmosphere in wliicli she dwelt 

Becoming daily more oppressed, 
She inwardly resolved and felt 

It would be wisest now, and best, — 



72 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

To leave awliile lier present home, 

And join her friends " away out West." 

She cherished not, as would have some, 
Unkindly feelings in her breast ; 

For well she knew no bad intent 

Had filled the hearts of those inclined 

To scorn alike, and quite resent, 
Her loving counsel, pure, refined. 

.She also knew, that had she been 
. Once placed in circumstances Kke, 
No light beyond what they had seen. 
She might have made the same mistake. 

She could not to herself deny 

How changed her feelings had become 

Since just a few short months ago. 

Though fearful quite had been the storm. 

She knew it could not always last : 

Its fury spent, the clouds would break ; 

The sun its beauteous rays would cast 
On all the hills and vales alike. 

And so, with feelings such as these. 
She started on her pilgrimage ; 

Finding it was a sweet release. 
And thankful foi- the privilege ; 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 73 

Although slie knew it caused her friends 

Much sad anxiety to feel. 
Her parents tried to make amends, 

And undue harshness to recall ; 

For, think and argue as they would. 
She was to them a daughter still ; 

Kind and gentle, always good, 
While true unto herself as well : 

And, notwithstanding all their fears, 
They were forced, against their will, 

To still acknowledge all her waj^s 
Were such as did their bosoms fill 

With high esteem and love for her. 
Whose presence they did sadly miss. 

She seemed a blessing to confer 
On all within her influence. 

A hearty welcome she received, 

Upon arriving safe and sound, 
(For her journey had improved 

And caused her spirits to rebound), — 

Where those congenial hearts bespoke 

The joy her coming did enhance. 
Sweet memories it too awoke, 

Which came not all by luck and chance. 

7 



74 MTSUNDEK STOOD. 

Indeed, we think few things there are 
Which come in that peculiar way ; 

Although the world must have its share 
Of false ideas, which do delay 

The advent of a mighty truth. 

Nor would we dare, with present sense. 
As we e'en might have done in youth, 

Impute to a wise Providence 

Effects of sins which only lie 
Beside our own unguarded door. 

The remedy we would apply 

Is common-sense, and nothing more. 

"We would that all our maidens dear. 
In spite of all the dainty rules 

Of etiquette, so blandly fair, 

Taught in aristocratic schools, — 

Come boldly forth, and quite ignore 
The everlasting " chit-a-chat," 

Which all acknowledge such a bore ! 
It may be culture, but 'tis not 

The kind of culture needed most 
To fit them for their station here. 

Temples of the Holy Ghost, 

Alas, how meager they appear ! . 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 75 

And how they early droop and fade, 
So burdened with their gay attire, 

As if their forms were only made 
To first adorn, and then admire I 

How many^ too, their health impair 

By lacing tight, and at an age 
When perfect freedom, pure, fresh air, 

And wholesome diet, should engage 

Their first attention, and their care ! 

We hope and pray the time may come. 
When mothers will their daughters rear 

To have a purpose and an aim 

Beyond the silly " fol-de-rols " 

Of frills and ruffles, tucks and bands ; 

When she whom now the world controls, 
Because her wealth and style commands 

The highest seat, the first and best 
Of all the plenteous earth affords ; 

No matter what her own behest. 

Or what the tenure of her words, — 

We say, may she herself grow wise, 
And then her wisdom strive to prove, 

By joining not the worldly wise, 
But, entering a finer groove, — 



76 MISUKDEESTOOD. 

More deeply cut ; depending, too. 

On intellect and force of will. 
May she attain without ado 

A knowledge which shall ever dwell 

Within her soul, and more and more 

Enlighten and control her mind ; 
Oft grieving o'er the trials sore, 
• Brought upon all human kind 

By disregard of nature's laws : 
And may she feel it no disgrace. 

When she findeth out the cause. 
Its sad effects to also trace, — 

And teach unto the world at large 

Avoidance of the crying sins 
Which grasp and hold the present age ; 

Endeavoring to kindly win 

By the powers she doth possess ; 

And by example pure and true, — 
Their wayward minds and souls impress 

With truths known only to the few ; 

But which shall spread, in time to come, 
Brmg " peace on earth, good-will to men," 

With happiness and love at home. 
And then her life will not have been 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 77 

An idle or a useless one. 

Her influence will permeate 
And purify alike the tone 

Of home, society, and state ; 

While many peoples yet unborn 

Unite her memory to bless. 
She will receive a fadeless crown. 

When to a higher life she pass. 

My friends, it doth my heart aggrieve 

To speak of follies and of faults, 
Which even you may not perceive ; 

And could I hope the same results 

Would be attained for thee and thine. 

Much rather would I only tell 
The kindly deeds which thou hast done. 

And all the noble ones as well : 

Nor would I judge thee too severe : 

Indeed, I would not judge at all. 
Not e'en our Saviour would appear 

To judge the woman who did fall ; 

But simply said, with loving tone, — 

" Go thou now, and sin no more." 
So mayest thou, each gentle one. 

Be led each day to live more pure : 



78 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Few there are, or rather none, 

Who have not some redeeming trait : 

So, after all that's said and done, 
We can but labor, Avork, and wait. 

'Tis oft inside the prickly burr 

We find the freshest, sweetest meat; 

And so in life it doth occur : 

That hidden virtues are most sAveet, — 

When, once their covering removed, 
Their grace and beauty are revealed. 

Oh ! may our talents be improved, 
Ere by our Master they're recalled ; 

Each shining moment made to tell 
Of some kind deed or word of love. 

Thus fitting us to ever dwell 

With angels bright and pure above ! 

When, I did leave our dear young friend, 

Or yet what she hath done the while, 
I scarce can tell without her aid, 
* There is so much which doth beguile, — 

So many thoughts which come between, 
I wander forth, nor heed the time 

When it is meet for my return. 

jNIay He whose teachings are sublime 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 79 

Guide and direct these thoughts aright ! — 

That I may clearly now relate 
Experiences brought to light 

By and through the channel gate 

Of her mediumistic powers ; 

Which we shall strive with heart sincere 
To give correctly. May these hours 

We so employ instruct and cheer 

Those who may have no such resource, 
Or, if they had, would scarcely dare 

Employ the means to put in force. 

Lest it should their good names impair ! 

By " her powers " we do not mean 
By hers alone ; since they are yet 

Quite undeveloped, and unseen, 

Save by the spirits pure and bright, — 

And by the great and good All-Wise. 

We will endeavor to explain, 
Although it need not you surprise 

If we do fail to make it plain, — 

Just how through her it came about. 

We have been taught that all possess, 
(And in our minds there is no doubt) 

In some degree, some more, some less, — 



80 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

This wondrous strange, mysterious power; 

And those w^io have the hirgest share 
Possess a gift, a holy dower. 

With which uouglit else can quite compare. 

That all these gifts are sanctified, 

We would not dare presume to claim ; 

Nor do we wonder some deride. 
Pronouncing it a burnmg shame 

To those who cruellj' deceive. 

Their only purpose greedy gain. 
It doth our hearts most sorely grieve. 

To know there are those who obtain 

By foul deceit, and false pretense. 
The filthy lucre which they seek. 

It is a heinous, sad offense. 
Alike the innocent and meek 

Do in this same, as in all else, 

Unjustly suffer for the sins 
Of those whose deeds do so repulse 

The "pure iu heart." Now here begins 

An explanation, which I trust 

Will not fail to show you why 
The pure, the faithful, and the just. 

Receive that which doth satisfy ; 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 81 

While they whose lives are the reverse 

Are alwaj'^s sure to be deceived, 
As they go on from bad to worse ; 

For what they have this way received 

It did not tend to purify. 

Yet on themselves it most depends ; 
And we will tell the reason why : — 

AVe each and all have spirit friends; 

They may or not be kith and kin ; 

Since, in that world so high above, 
The only ties which do remain 

Are those of friendship and of love. 

Attraction is the law which binds 
Congenial hearts and minds alone ; 

And thus we say, on each depends. 
Far more than on another one, — 

The class of spirits which attend, 

And, in a great degree, control 
The silent working of our mind. 

If we possess a truthful soul, — 

Then truthful spirits will attend. 

'Tis said that like attracts its like ; 
And this continues to the end. 

In spite of many a sad mistake. 



82 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

" Unto the pure all things are pure." 
To us the meaning is quite plain ; 

Because if we ourselves are pure, 
We shall attract the pure alone. 

We shall not " find " unless we " seek ; " 
Nor then unless we seek aright. 

li false pretensions we do make. 
Although it may not be our fate 

To at a word give up the ghost, 
(Like Ananias and Sapphira,) 

We shall most likely for our guest 
Have one who loves and makes a lie. 

By this you see that spirits too 
Are not. all of the selfsame grade ; 

For some are high, and some are low, 
While some are good, and some are bad. 

To you who are pure " orthodox " 
All this may seem a little strange : 

Indeed, you can not, all at once. 

Give to your thoughts so wide a range. 

And here I might as well confess. 

It was a bitter pill for me, 
And did my spmts much depress. 

When first my eyes were made to see 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 83 

That evil spirits had the power 

Oft to impress and to control 
Wheree'er they found an open door 

Unto some wicked sinner's soul. 

I could most readily believe 

That angels pure and true and good 

Did hover near, and could perceive 
Our every thought, our every need. 

But even now my soul doth grieve 

To think how many are misled 
By what in this wise they receive : . 

It does not good, but harm instead. 

Thus it behooveth one and all, 
To " try the spirits " ere we trust 

Too much in what they do foretell ; 
Lest spirits evil, for the just 

We do mistake, and get deceived. 

And now I trust you understand. 
Just why it was our friend received 

Those truths so beautiful and grand, — 

She shaping all her future course 
By counsel pure which she received 

From this most wise and truthful source ; 
iNo fears that she would be deceived. 



81 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

The niodium through whom slie before 

Communications had receiYed, 
Had passed unto that hvigliter shore, 

Where hearts shall be no more bereaved. 

But those dear friends with whom she dwelt 
Did recommend an one which they 

Had visited, and also felt 

Was what she did profess to be. 

So, unattended as before, 

Our friend proceeded to embrace 

An opportunity so rare, 

And tind if spirit-friends could trace 

For her, the intervening time, 

Which had elapsed since they addressed 
Her for the first and only time. 

Those communings had been blessed ; 

And now her heart did pant for more. 
So sweet had been the influense ; 

'Twas like a gentle summer shower, 
Diffusing life without pretense. 

So, as I said, she went alone, 
And as directed by her frieryis, 

Unto this stranger, who had won 

Respect and love which seldom blends, — 



MISUNDERSl'OOD. 85 

To clicer a heart more worthy love, 
A soul which merits more respect. 

Combining; thus harmonious love, 
Did have a wonderful effect 

And this produce distinct and clear 

Some revelations more advanced 
Than those she had received before. 

The medium fully entranced, — 

Remaining thus an hour, or more, 

Had no conception afterward 
Of what transpired within the hour. 

Or what the spirits through her said. 

Not only did they that confirm. 

Which had to her been once revealed, 

But followed her through every storm ; 
And what she deftly had concealed 

From all human observation. 

They did most readily perceive. 
Giving her sweet consolation. 

Beseeching nevermore to grieve. 

A band of spirits had been forming. 

Her to cherish iwid protect ; 
They long had been her brain impressing ; 

Her very thoughts they did direct ; 

8 



86 MISrXDERSTOOD. 

And she, ere long, Avoukl be prepared 
To do a work she little dreamed, 

Since noAv 'tAvould seem so very hard : 
Her " life-work " then would be resumed, 

Or, more correctly, just begin. 

It was their influence, Mhich led 
Her to her home and friends resign, 

And, for the present, make instead 

That Western city her abode. 

She would so quickly there unfold. 
With all the means they should provide, 

'Twould give her happiness untold. 

As for the friends she left behind. 
They were less bitter, even now 

And would in time be quite resigned ; 
Xot only so, but wish to know 

These truths as undei-stood by her ; 

Wliile she, in turn, could satisfy 
And teach them inflnitely better 

Just how to gain, and liow apply, — 

Than could a stranger ; as they knew 

That her veracity and truth. 
They all might trust, so what came through 

Her organism would be worth 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 87 

A tenfold portion else obtained. 

Nor would it be confined alone 
To personal or other friend, 

But reach the heart of many an one 

Whose soul did now in darkness grope : 
She would become a "' shining light," 

Her thoughts assume a boundless scope ; 

And she, ere long, those thoughts would write. 

It is but meet that you should know, 

That on the other side as well. 
Those there are who do convey 

What they and others wish to tell ; 

In other words, that are possessed 

Of mediumistic powers the same 
As those of earth, yet more progressed, 

And better able to declaim. 

And these it is who do control 

Our mediums and us below : 
Hight glad are they to those enroll 

Who stand for freedom ; and bestow 

Their time and thoughts to harmonize, 

And bring about a glad reform, 
Such as deluded mortal eyes 

Are yet unready to confirm. 



SS MISr>s'PEESTOOD. 

Full many here do never know 
Tliat they at ivll the gift possess : 

Not that their progress has been slow, 
For this is not always the ease, — 

As we'll endeavor here to show. 
And in eonneetion with our friend. 

The second time which she did go 
To pay a visit to her friend, — 

The medium of whom we spoke, — 
She did describe, while in a trance, 

A spirit which did tirst invoke 

A fervent blessing, then adviuice, — 

A little cautiously. I ween. 

Fearing his presence might disturb 

The harmony of thought between 

Those ones whose minds he would absorb. 

His face and features, form and build, 

The color of his eyes and hair. 
The steadfast look so kind and mild. 

Also the "gown" he used to weai", — 

Wore accurately all described ; 

And joy and gladness tilled the heart 
Of her who listened, satisfied 

Bcvond the shadow of a doubt. — 



MISrXDEK STOOD. 89 

That ho who did on them attend 

Was a beloved pastor dear. 
Most fondly cherished as a fiiend, 

AVliose memory she did revere. 

Years had elapsed since, when far from home. 
He suddenly fi'om earth -was called 

Those brighter fields above to roam 
"Where earth-born spirits do unfold. 

He it was who lii^t engaged 

Our fii-st attention in the way 
Of Christian duties as prescribed 

By Him, the Life, the Truth, the Way. 

Under his pastorsliip she knelt. 

Uniting with the chiu-cli i][uite young : 

And ever afterward she felt 

A pure attachment, deep and strong, — 

For liim as guide and counselor. 

Her gentle, unobtrusive ways 
Had not escaped his watchful care. 

Although they gave no chance for praise, — 

Even had he been so inclined : 

Nor would she then have dared presume 
He understood so well her mind. 

When he, therefore, did now resume 



90 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Their sweet acquaintance in this way, 
It gave her pleasure and surprise ; 

She lonoed to hear him speak and say, — 
" ril for your questions find replies." 

Silence did reign a little space. 

And then she softly spoke his name ; 

Her hand was grasped, and held so close, 
By her through whom this message came 

'' I am so thankful, dear young friend, 
To be thus recognized by you, 

And also that I here do find 

One tlu'ough Avhom I can bestow 

My thoughts and counsels upon you. 

I long have watched you tenderly. 
Having had this end in view. 

You have progressed more rapidly, — 

Owing unto this watchfulness, 

Than otherwise you would have done. 

I much have tried you to impress ; 
Kor has my labor been in vain. 

Ofttimes, when in your glad research 
For wisdom from the ' Book of books,' 

I have been near to guide and teach 

Your willing mind ; for sad mistakes, — 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 91 

I grieve to say, have oft been made, 
By thoughtless ones and unconcerned, 

And also by the vi^ise and good 
Who have endeavored to resound 

And show the glory of the Lord, 
Whose ' goodness is unsearchable,' 

And all his ways ' past finding out.' 
It may not be agreeable, — 

To those who think themselves so wise, 
To hear what I shall have to say ; 

But I can onl}^ compromise 

By here assuming what is true. 

These things whereof I now do speak 

Have all been proven long ago ; 
But human minds are vain and weak, 

And so to comprehend are slow. 

'Tis not my purpose here to prove 

Those who are bound in error's chain ; 

ril simph' speak ' tlie truth in love,'' 
Hoping I thus may kindly gain 

The wise attention of some few. 

I was progressive while on earth. 
And much more liberal than some, 

Yet never learned this blessed truth, — 



Oil MlSrXPEKSTOOD 

"Which since has given me such joy : 
For spirits do return to earth. 

And do their utmost powers employ. 
To spread abroad this glorious truth,— 

Tliough often met Avith cruel scorn 
By those they -would so g-ladly teach. 

I did possess, while iu the fornu 

This wondrous gift, but did nor reach 

Or undei'stand at all its power. 

Until I passed from earth rtN\ay. 
I find these laws are tixed and sure. 

Lasting as eternity : yea, — 

And they have ever been the same. 
Through all the ages come and gone. 

I count myself not all to blame : 

Yet, could I while there, have known 

These things which you arc learning fast, 
^ly slow progression would have been 

So much more rapid in the past : 
Indeed, to speak it very plain. — 

You, my dear, when '• gathered home." 

Will no such iirnoramuat be. 
I fotmd 1 ituist indeed become 

'Just as a little child.' to be 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 93 

Admittod to the ' kingdom ' here. 

A few instriu'tious 1 MH)uld give 
Yon in regard to your career, 

Since "well I know you will receive 

And kindly follow my advice : — 

Firstly, 1 would have you sit, 
Once at least, and better t^vice, 

For an hour each day or night, — 

Alone, and quiet in your room. 
Just close beside your little stand, 

(Your mind should be serene and calm), 
Upon which gently hi}^ your hand. 

Continue this, uiiiil again 

1 here do with yourselt" converse. 
Now, the result is not quite plain ; 

Yet this I know : it will innnerse 

You with a spirit magnetism. 

Developing your latent powers 
So kept in check by ostracism ; 

Although you bravely bore the sneers 

Hurled at the truth in freedom's cause. 

The time, I trust, will not be long 
Ere I, through you, can give to those 

^Vhonl I on earth instructed icroiiij, — 



94 ]SnSUNDERSTOOD. 

A proof that I have wiser grown. 

Much then I ignorantly taught, 
Which now, I freely, ghadly own, 

I had far better left untaught. 

Many things which I did sa}^, 

I hope, through you, to then unsay ; 

And the errors which have led 
Many hearts and minds astray, — 

I would most gladly all remove ; 

But time and patience are required, 
However fervently we strive. 

Ere this, my object long desired, — 

Can be all or half attained. 

I should be glad much more to say ; 
But can not now : may grace attend 

You, my sister, daughter, charge, each day ! 

I soon would have you come again, 
That I may further you instruct ; 

I know my counsel youll retain. 
And strive to work as I du-ect. 

This is the first and only time, 
/ tlirough mortal lips have spoke ; 

But now I hope to oft resume 
This privilege, and thereby make 



MISUKDEESTOOD. 95 

What now seems misty, clear to you ; 

I thank 3^011 Idndly, dear young friend, 
For giving opportunity 

Of imparting to your mind 

These truths which will from you go forth 
And that to cheer and bless mankind. 

Your friends in time will know your worth. 
And sorrow o'er their words unldnd. 

Firmly stand for truth and rigM., 

Regarding not the world's cold frown : 

Then when you reach your home of light, 
You shall receive a fadeless crown." 



To you who have these pages conned, 
I have a word or two to say, 

In regard to what is found 
In this communication true. 

I would have you understand 
That he who gave it unto her 

Did no poetic gift command ; 

I doubt not some would much prefer 

The pure expressive language used ; 

Such, I trust, will me excuse, 
For thus giving it transposed, 

Since I could not have otherwise 



96 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Done justice to mi/self or it : 
Of this ye may be well assured : 

That I have added not a whit 
Unto the substance I procured 

Directly from the hearer's lips : 

She shrank, at first, from public gaze ; 

Her former life one sad eclipse, 

'TAvere hard indeed, the veil to raise, — 

And all her " inner life *' expose, 

"Where rude contempt and bitter scorn 

]Might both surround, perhaps impose 
Their venom on the sacred shrine. 

I argued that 'twould be unjust. 

And also seltish. to conceal : 
Some would. I did not doubt, tiistxust: 

Othei-s might help her to reveal 

That which to her was meat and drink ; 

Her own experience had been 
Most wonderful, nor shoidd she shrink 

From having it more widely kno\\n. 

So she at last gave her consent, 

Fi-om a desire to othei*s aid : 
And gave to mo. without restraint. 

These things whereof I now do writ^. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 97 

'Tis uegdless here for me to say 

How pleased and liappj- she had been, 

To thus receive and bear away 

Those counsels wise she must retain 

Through all her future days and years : 

Xor is it long before again 
Within his presence she appears ; 

Adding thereto a sweet refrain, — 

Like music wafted from the spheres, 
Enchanting with its silvery voice, 

While drowning all her petty cares. 
And bidding all her heart rejoice. 

This time before her eyes was placed 
(^Tlie medium's, I should have said, 

Who clairvoyant powers possessed) 
A symbol which she did describe. 

" I see," she said, " in front of you, 

A marble urn so pure and white : 
'Tis tilled with earth : the morning dew 

Is lingering there, so fresh and sweet. 

Xow in its center do I see 

A something green : I scarce can tell, — 
It is so very small and wee, — 

Yet wait : it now doth erow and swell. 



9S MISUNDEK STOOD. 

A slender fovn is shooting up. 

And bearing branelies, one, two. three ; 
The fii'st is small, nor near the top ; 

The seeond one, as I no-vv see, — 

]Mnoh larg'er is, and growing fast : 
While the third is round and broad. 

And a refreshing shade doth east 
Upon the urn it doth oVi-spread : 

Underneath eaeh slender leaf. 

Are myriads of tiny seeds, 
"NVhieh ripen in a spaee so brief. 

And then are seattered by the winds, — 

Hither, thither, far and near. 

One thing I did observe, 'twas this : — 
The braneh which did at lirst appear 

Came almost instantaneously : 

The seeond one, of slower gn'iwth, 
Was much more comely in its form ; 

While the third and last did strength 
And gracefulness alike combine.'' 

Whett this sweet symbol had been given. 

The n^edium fell in a trance. 
As she did take a gentle hold. 

The hand our friend did then advance. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 99 

Her pastor dear, already there, 

A hearty welcome to her gave. 
Seeming all her thoughts to share, 

And of his own accord did give 

The meaning of the symbol sweet, 
Which he himself had placed before 

The half-imconscious one so meet, 
To represent in language piu-e 

What she, by her claii-voyant powers, 

Could so clear xUid perfect trace, 
Thus aided by our friend's desires, 

As w^ell as by her influence. 

She sat in happy, tranquil mood, 

Silently musing, though not long. 
And wondering if she indeed 

Possessed a gift equally strong. 

Her thoughts did scarce assume a form, 

Or even to herself appear, 
Before the wished-for answer came. 

With its most sweet and kind good cheer. 

Her dear instructor and her guide 

Then said the s}Tnbol was a type 
Of ail the powers which did abide 

Within hereelf, though yet luuipe. 



100 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

The fern, he said, with branches three. 

Did represent her mediumship, 
In its phases, also three ; 

And from the first, she soon would sip 

A pleasing draught unto herself. 

And one which would fresh courage give. 
As well as strengthen her belief. 

And all her doubts and fears remove. 

This phase, however, soon would be. 
Like the lowest branch of fern, 

Almost entirely hid from view, 
By the second in its turn ; 

"Which phase, though slower in its growth, 
Would much more satisfaction give. 

And prove a gem of priceless worth. 
Unto the minds who could receive 

And comprehend the teachings wise. 
Coming from that fruitful source. 

Helping to ope their blinded eyes. 
And these same sentiments indorse. 

While phase the third would, like its branch. 
Be round and full, o'ershadowing 

The lower two, while it would launch 
Most boldly forth on fearless wing, — 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 101 

And give unto tlie world at large 

Material for deeper thought, 
Instructing rightly to discharge 

Life's duties as they might and ought. 

The tiny seeds so numerous 

Did represent the gems of thought ' 

Which would in future dawn to bless 

Most noble minds as yet rmtaught ; 

While she would in a measure be 

Like somewhat to the sower who, 
Our Saviour said, went forth to sow ; 

And, as he went this work to do, — 

Some seeds did by the wayside fall : 

No chance had they to sprout and grow ; 

For fowls did come, devouring all. 
Others did fall on stony ground, — 

Where they did have no depth of earth. 

All these came up ; but, when the sun 
Did its most scorching rays put forth, 

They withered quickly, every one, — 

Because they were without a root. 

Then some among the thorns did fall. 
And then of course the thorns did choke, 

So they could scarcely grow at all. 

9* 



102 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

' But other fell into good ground,' 

And this brouglit forth abundant fruit, 

Some, indeed, an ' hundred fold,' 
While other, ' thirty ' did compute ; 

Also other, the same twice told. 

'Tis needless for me to repeat 
The exposition given of old. 

Since you have learned it all by heart. 

As in those days to some 'twas given 
(If the word of God be true) 

To know the ' mysteries of heaven,' 
Even so 'tis given now. 

But many seeing do not see, 
And many hearing do not hear : 

Ask ye tvliij they do not see. 

Or why, alas ! tlie}^ do not hear ? 

These questions need no new replies, 
But just the same which Jesus gave. 

Now, as then, some close their eyes, 
Lest, having seen, they should believe ; 

While tightly some their ears do shut, 
Lest, having heard, they might believe, 

And with their hearts might understand. 
And be converted too, and live. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 103 

But blessed are the eyes which see, 
And blessed are the ears which hear, 

What hath been seen and heard by you. 
As also that which sihall appear. 

Many souls will be inspired, 

And, like those holy men of old, 
Desire to hear what ye have heard, 

And all these mysteries unfold ; 

Then fear thou not, my precious charge, 
When doubts arise, and foes assail ; 

But strive with us to still enlarge 
The noblest powers of thy soul." 

Such words of wisdom and of love, 

Did our young friend from time to time 

Most glad and thankfully receive. 

Doubting not from whence they came. 

Her life, she felt, was just begun ; 

And, in truth, we felt the same ; 
She had just only found the sun, 

And learned for why she ever came 

Unto this earth so drear and lone. 
For such it had unto her seemed ; 

Her heart, until of late, had been 
So frozen, that she had not dreamed 



104 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

It, could awako to ligiit and love, 

Letting all the sunbeams in, 
Until slio reached her home above. 

Freed from sorrow and from sin. 

" The tempest cloud, when wild winds rest. 
Builds up the rainbow on the breast ; 
And truths unseen when all is bright, 
Shine like the stars in sorrow's night." 

" The soul its noblest strength must gain 
Through ministries of grief and pain ; 
Great virtues only come through strife. 
And death is but the gate of life." 

Life now to her each day became 

More like to that which angels know, 

Whose holy purpose and whose aim 
Is, us poor mortals here below 

To guide, direct, whene'er they can 

An opportiuiity foresee. 
She gave herself no time to scan 

The whole of life's tempestuous sea ; 

But, in the sphere marked out for her. 

Endeavored to fulfdl in love 
Each duty plain she felt so sure 

Was sanctioned by "loved ones'" above. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 105 

She labored both with heart and hand, 
As also with her mind and iVrain ; 

Ilcr hopes were built not on the sand : 
Her firm foundation had been laid 

Upon the " Rock of ages," cleft 

For you, for me, for every one. 
He would that no one lamb be left 

To perish in the cold alone. 

When storms arose, and winds were high, 

She leaned on Him, her Saviour still, 
Ever watchful, ever nigh, 
• Still kindly saying, " Peace, be still." 

As we did watch her day by day. 
She seemed the soil to so prepare, 

No chance to leave the enemy 
To sow beneath one single tare ; 

Or, if he did, her vigilance 

Did sure uproot ere harm was done. 

No means had she of sustenance. 
Except by efforts all her own. 

Therefore some portion of each day, 

She did devote unto her tasks : 
Not but that her friends alway 

Were glad and willing she should make 



106 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Their home her own in all respects, 

Without compensation too : 
Their kindness she only accepts 

On condition she may do, — 

In return, as much for them. 

They, like her, felt it a source 
Of satisfaction, to perform 

Some share of labor ; and enforce 

Upon their little ones the same, 
Teaching them 'twas no disgrace 

To labor, but a sin and shame 
To spend then* time in idleness. 

Each child had its appointed hours 
For work, for lessons, and for play, 

Exercising much out of doors 

When bright and pleasant was the day. 

The household was a model one, 

And systematic in its rules ; 
The cliildren better taught, I ween 

Than in most our modern schools ; 

The younger by the elder ones, 
Were tenderly and kindly led : 

No discordant, angry tones 

Within that happy home were heard. 



MISUNDEESTOOD. 107 

'Twas ruled and guided all by love 

Pure, unsullied, free as air : 
No jealousies their hearts did move, 

No unkindness lingered there. 

To some this doubtless all will seem 
A fancy sketch, unmeant for truth, — 

A poet's thought, or golden dream, 
Too beautiful and fair for earth. 

To such I say, I know 'tis rare 

To find combined the elements 
"Which must unite such fruits to bear ; 

And few there are whose sentiments 

Would at all with ours compare. 

We can not at the present time 
Give you what we should boldly dare. 

Were it the subject of our rhyme. 

But that there are such perfect homes, 

Even on this sinful earth. 
We do know, for we have them seen, 

And treasured up their matchless worth. 

Lest some might think us overwise, • 

We will allude to just one fact ; 
It is, that mothers need advice 

On subjects which few dare instruct, — 



1 08 MTSITNDERSTOOD. 

Altlunii;li it is ort^i'oal import, 
And not unto tluMnsolves alone ; 

Still nunv than them does it niTeet 
Their precious oll'spring yet unborn. 

The}' should bo taught not only how 
To rear their children after birth» 

And the wisest course pursue, 
l>ut also how to bear an'<jht. 

Did mothers fully realize 
The almost luiiversal power 

Which tJici/ aloiw can i'.irn'(Si\ 

To make earth vile, or make it pure, 

JMothinks they would, all else above, 
Strive to knt)W and do aright; 

Their babes ti^ hear and 7'ear in lovc^ 
St> dear and precious in God's sight. 

No parent should in anger deal. 
Nor yet by hard and cruel force : 

'Tis thus they do themselves reveal, 
Possessing not that " inward grace " 

"Which should each act of life control. 

These little ones will soon detect 
The motive power by which they rule, 

And accordincilii respect. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. • 109 

If love and kindness docs aloiu! 

Direct their hearts, and govern them^ 
They will with sweet and gentle tone 

Give to their little ones the same. 

And, in their tnrn, their little ones 

Just like a mirror will reflect, 
Giving back the same sweet tones, 

All with a, loving, due respect. 

But if, instead, the parent give 

An angry word, a cruel blow, 
lie will most snre the same receive ; 

Uidcss the child is kept in tow 

By fear of punishment severe ; 

And even iiicii his ang(!r, ])ent 
So deep wilhiu, will only chafe 

His sonl until it finds a vent; 

If not on them, on something else, — 

Some innocent and loving pet, 
Perhaps ; or, what is even worse, 

A younger sister, who can not 

At all defend her little self. 

Yet dare not make the least complaint. 
Lest she be deemed a silly elf, 
, And punished^ too, without restraint. 

10 



110 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

And all boeaiise, as said the sage, 
^ Thou art weak, and I am strong : " 

I would it might all hearts engage 
To rescue those wlio suffer A^Tong. 

This all-important subjoet doth 
Just of itself demand a book : 

One which will mterest the youth. 
And teach them not to overlook, — 

Or shrink from knoA\'ing, what 'tis plain 
They should be taught ere they become 

Fathers, mothers, giddy, vain ; 

But more from ignorance than blame. 

A little longer, if you please, 
I your forbearance kindly ask. 

Although I can not write with ease. 
It seeming more like to a task 

Tliau did the subject hrst advanced : 
But. Oh ! my heart is oft made sad; 

I wonld its joy might be enhanced 
r>v making other hearts more glad, — 

And teaching them the sdnie to do. 

A fearful and a sad mistake 
Is made by many parents, who 

Jlean verv kindlv, vet do lack 



MISUNDERSTOOD. Ill 

That "\\'isdoin which experience, 

It seems to lis must surely teach ; 
And yet their inconsistencies 

Show it is still outside their reach. 

They can not seem to see the hann 
Of giving all their children a^A-, — 

Granting every wish and whim, 
Imposing no unwilling task ; 

But spending all then- time and thought 

In just devising ways and means 
To please, amuse, and help them seek 

A healing balm for all tlieii" pains, — 

By pleasing just onJg themselves. 

These same dear parents doubtless think 
Themselves unselfish, kind, and true. 

And would with conscious wonder slrrink 

From being told, by one who knew. 
They were, instead, quite the reverse ; 

And had themselves proved untrue, 
As also selfish, in tlieu" course. 

For what saitli He, the wise and just ? 

The giver and receiver may 
JBoth be m a measure blest ; 

But we are taught that he did sav, — 



112 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

The giver., most : then ponder well, 
And see if you can think it wise, 

And call yourselves unselfish still, 
While you so thoughtlessly devise 

The ways to all the giving do ; 

Thus leaving not the slightest chance 
For these dear children to bestow 

Tlieir gifts on you, and thus advance 

Their own self-interest, and prove 
They too are worthy, in their turn, 

The highest blessing to receive. 
And that, because tliey truly earn. 

Their happiness doth not consist 

In doing nothing save for self 
And having nothing but the best: 

Our great Exemplar " pleased not himself." 

I do beseech of you to heed 

And profit by his counsel wise ; 
You sowing in their hearts good seed ; 

For weeds will spring up otherwise ; 

Which you should kindly help uproot, 

Instead of only sowing more, 
And watering those already up. 

That they with them for aye endure, — 



MISUISTDERSTOOD. 113 

Endure, at least, till they become 

All firmly stranded in the soil ; 
While you are growing old, meantime, 

No longer able for to toil ; 

And all your little ones have grown 

To manhood and to womanhood : 
The seeds you in their hearts have sown 

Are bearing fruit : we trust 'tis good ; 

And hath not been all overrun 

By weeds so tall they shade it quite 

From heaven's warm and glowing sun. 
Preventing it from getting ripe. 

I pray you think how hard 'twould be, 

For them, unaided and alone. 
At that bright age to change, and see 

How great a wrong you them had done 

By your mistaken view of life ; 

While these same weeds so rank and tall 
Would cause them such a weary strife ; 

And, if they did uproot them all, — 

It would most likely so disturb 

The grain also, it would impede 
Its tender growth, and, too, absorb 

The precious time they so much need. 



114 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

I -will, dear friends, return again 
Unto the subject of my verse, 

Of whom we yet have much to learn, 
And many wonders to rehearse. 

What I shall firstl}^ here relate 
May seem a simple thing to you ; 

It is to give you the result, 
Of her " sittings " just a few. 

As her dear pastor did predict. 
If she would follow his advice. 

And Avould each day quietly sit. 
An hour at least, once or twice, — 

Alone within her cheerful room, 

Her hands placed lightly on the stand, 

A message to her there would come, 
And from a loving spirit-friend. 

It would be given by the " raps," 
As soon as he could get control ; 

A short time only would elapse. 
Before she felt within her soul 

His presence dear, and also felt 
The stand vibrate, and gently tip 

Toward herself, then oscillate, 
And thus produce a tiny " rap." 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 115 

This unto her would be a sign 

That he was then prepared to try 
To make himself unto her known, 

And with her wishes to comply. 

If she would first some questions ask, 
Whose answer should be Yes or No, 

He would then assume the task 
Of reading all her mind so true 

(The questions she might only think) 

As to answer them aright, 
Forming this, the first dear Imk 

Of that sweet chain so golden bright 

Which should in future many more 

Strong links unto itself unite, 
Binding to hers those spirits pure. 

Which did her guileless heart invite 

To sweet communion with their own. 

If to her question the reply 
Was No, they simply should rap one ; 

If Yes they meant, they should count three. 

If they could not the answer give. 

Or thought it wiser to withhold, 
They sure would never her deceive. 

But two vaps give ; which meant, Untold. 



116 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

She would be sure to also ^et 

Some names and sentences, if she 

Would call aloud the alphabet 
All in its order carefully ; 

Just waiting long enough between 
Each letter, to give them a chance 

To raise the stand, and rap just one, 
At the letter she should use 

To form the words and sentences 
They hoped to give her yevy soon. 

She must expect some crudities 

In these their first attempts to form 

This communistic tie between 

Themselves and her, — 'twas not unlike 
Most other things we have to learn ; 

And simple lessons must first awake 

The slumbering genius of our bram. 

Were these left out, we could not hope 
A " higher knowledge " to obtain. 

Without our finding up-hill work. 

For reading we must firstly learn 

Our a-b-c ; and a-b, ab : 
So in this spirit communion, 

'Tis needful to beffin with ab. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 117 

Well now as I have said before, 

This same prediction soon came true ; 

For scarce a week had passed, before 
A message carae from one she loiew, — 

And one of whom 3'ou have been told ; 

The friend she loved in youth so well : 
He that little stand controlled, 

And many things to her did tell. 

There could, of course, be no deceit, 

She sitting there alone and still. 
One night she did her friends invite 

To sit with her a little while, — 

And see if spirits all the same 

Would then their presence manifest. 

Indeed they did : and others came, 
As she supposed, at the behest 

Of those kind friends who sat with her. 

Her supposition was confirmed ; 
For names entirely strange to her 

Were given, and by them affirmed 

To be in every case correct. 

Of all the friends assembled there, 
Not one could see the least defect, 

Or trace a syllable unfair. 



118 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

A name was spelled, or message given, 
Unto eacli one ; and, strange to say, 

(The messages they gave were seven) 
Were every one acknowledged true. 

The reason why I say 'twas strange 
That nothmg but the truth was given. 

Is simply, that to thus arrange 

A group, even so small as seven, — 

So that true harmony prevail, 

And crown their efforts -with success. 

So soon as that, was wonderful ; 
As few there^are who do possess 

Like qualities of heart and mind. 

Another reason may have been 
An earnestness we seldom find 

In search of truth, and truth alone, — 

"Which did our friend characterize. 

Her dail}' prayer had long since been. 
That she might fulh' realize 

The worth of that bright gift unseen, — 

And also, that no words untrue 

Might through her powers be given forth, 
Or she mislead in any way 

Earnest seekers for the truth. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 119 

She sat each day, and somethmg new 

Each time received, which gave good cheer : 

Most rapidly her mind did grow 

Beneath those " loved ones' " tender care. 

Just one week only had elapsed 

Since rap the first Avas heard within 

(At least since she had occupied) 
The sacred precincts of her room, — 

When quite a change, to her surprise, 

In the manner of the " rap " 
Appeared unto her wondering eyes : 

The stand refused to move or tip, — 

A thing it ne'er had done before 
Since her control had first begun : 

She sat and wondered more and more 
Why it was ; if she had done 

Aught amiss in their opinion. 

She had endeavored, she was sure, 
To jdeld herself to their dominion. 

Giving what they did give to her. 

She was not long kept in suspense ; 

For her right hand raised gently up, 
Then fell again with sudden force. 

Making her thumb distinctly rap. 



120 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Now she had never seen or heard 

Of any thing like this before, 
And scarcely knew how to proceed, 

Till in succession came three more (raps) 

As if inviting her to speak ; 

So she did ask if in this way 
They would have her further seek 

What they might wish to give or say ; 

If so, they please would make it known : 

Three raps meant Yes ; and Yes meant they ; 

And long with her they did remain 
Conversing wholly in this way. 

Quite often now her friends did join, 

And form a circle in her room ; 
The information they did gain. 

Though coming slowly unto them, — 

Did help prepare them to receive 

In other ways, by other means ; 
Now only those who did believe, 

Had she invited of her friends. 

And oftentimes, when they did sit, 
Scarce a word by them was spoken ; 

But each in turn did ask in thought^ 
Giving not the slightest token 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 121 

Of what tliey had upon their minds, 
Or when, either, they asked a question : 

Their minds were all correctly read ; 
And scarce a word of misconception 

Came to mar the interchange 

Of their most jDure and warm affection. 
It did at first seem very strange. 

To watch that hand in quiet motion ; 

Giving answers when required. 

And always to their satisfaction ; 
Even when no spoken word 

Gave a clew to its direction. 

We would not have joii think our friend 

Neglected quite, or left undone 
Her other duties, to attend 

Unto this subject, which had grown 

More interesting day by day. 

Although her inclinations led 
Her to postpone until the morrow 

The things which conscience said she ir-ho-.ld 

In justice do that very da}'. 

She would not give a moment's heed, 
But quickly drove such thoughts away ; 

Performing justl}^ every deed 



122 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Of whioli her conscience did approve ; 

INlaking herself most nseful still, 
For self-sustaining she must live, 

Or have no peace within her soul. 

To do this same was no great task. 
Since her expenses were but small. 

Aside from what her mind did ask 
For its advancement, and its call. 

Her attire was neat but plain, 

Requiring little time or skill ; 
For higher thoughts, a higher aim. 

Did all her gentle bosom fill, 

And much enjo^yment she did find 
In oft attending lectures, where 

Untrammeled minds, pure and refined. 
Gave out their thoughts so rich and rare : 

Nor did she fail to oft embrace 

The opportunity to seek 
Fresh words of wisdom from the source 

Through which her guide spoke unto her ; 

Indeed, this was her chief delight. 
The fountain which gave only forth 

Crystal waters pure and bright, — 
An emblem of liis love and truth. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 123 

Eacli time she came, there seemed to flow 

A closer sympathy between ; 
As each the other seemed to know, 

And by their intuition keen. 

When with this medium alone 
(So far as mortal *yes could see), 

She did assume the look and tone 
Of that dear pastor long ago, 

Before he left the earthly sphere, 

As he did give unto his Hock 
The best which he then held in store ; 

That ' best ' seemed now so chill and bleak, 

He longed to change the atmosphere, 

And make it more endurable 
To those who yet must sojourn here, 

'Mid trials insurmountable, — 

And 'neatli the present " code of laws " 
Not nature's laws ; for those remain 

As changeless as their " great First Cause," 
Whose power alone doth them sustain. 

He longed to break the cruel chains 
Which hold so many captive bound. 

And bid them roam o'er freedom's plains. 
Heeding no more the clarion sound 



VIA MlSUNDERSPOdO. 

Of o;irth-l>ovn soldiers, maichiiig l\n'tli 

At the boat of life ami ilvmn, 
EmU'avovini;' to cnis/i tltc truth : 

Lost some <\(\w hobbv of tlunr own 

lu'reivo a shook it eaii not stand. 
And Ahis ! come tumbling;- th>\vn. 

Theio are, (hank (u)d! some few who cherish 
The right which ever}' mother's sou, — 

Yea, and daughter too the same, 
Shonld ha\e aeeorded unto them ; 

Nor shoidd tliev wait, but bohlly claim 
What iiuman justice (^ I) di'uicth them; 

The r'hiJtt to /////;/.• their oirii frrc tJioii(/hts^ 

And live according to the same ; 
Altlumgh the workl inav say, "It looks 

Iv-a-t-h-c-r s-u-s-p-i-c-i-o-u-s," ahem ! 

AVhat saith St. James about this hiw? 

That we should never look therein ? 
Not so, my frieml : •" This man shall be 

Blessed in his deed." AVhat doth he mcau ? 

Just hH>k and see : 'tis very plain; 

'' r>ut whoso looketh into the 
J'erCcet law of liberty. 

And continueth therein," — 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 126 

Forgetting not, doing IIk; work," — 
All ! what p(!r(;c))tivo ])Owcrs had he I 

Did ho not sec them turning back, 
And glancing cautiously to see 

If ihc/i) had hcj'M auHpected yet ? 

And, if they did get safely back, 
No ])ovvc)s of cartli or heaven should get 

Tlieni to leave (again) the "beaten track." 

The promised blessing they have lost, 

And all because of cowardice ; 
If loving not the world the l)est, 

Too weak to bear its prejudice. 

This lie i"or(;savv: else why the need 
Of adding shortly, " And to keep 

Himself unspotted from the wor'ld," 
Alas ! that men should be so tried, 

Or, rather, that tliey should not have 

Suilicient courage to withstand 
The sore temptations which do grieve, 

While causing them to weakly yield. 

Contrary to their sense of right ! 

But 1 have left my lady-love : 
I hope she'll meekly bear the slight ; 

J think she will ; for I believe, — 
11* 



126 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Or if my memory serves me right, 
I left her holding sweet convei-se 

With her dear pastor, by whose might 
She grew in beaut}^ and in grace ; 

I mean, of course, her spirit did. 
And shed a radiance o'er her face ; 

That face no hunger pale and sad ; 
For brightness shone in every glance. 

No feeling of inharmony 

Found there a welcome or a name ; 
That green-eyed monster, jealousy, 

Had long sinT3e left for very shame. 

Think not this being yet had wings. 
Although a friend who loved to tease. 

And talk about " terrestrial " things, 
liaising at times a gentle breeze. — 

Did one day ask lier if her wings 

Had yet commenced to sprout and grow ; 

Tlien added, in complacent tones, 
" My dear, if I do rightly know, — 

Yonr honis^ forsooth ! will first appear. 

As by the ' Evil One ' alone 
You have been ruled a year or more." 

Alas, Alas ! the answer came : — 



MISUNDEHSTOOD. 127 

" It may be so ; for surely I 

Do need the horns much more than ivings 
To here contend, as I must do, 

With the present state of thmgs." 

This was intended as a joke. 

And in tliat way also received ; 
Yet still it was one little stroke 

Too much : she felt aggrieved, — 

As if, perhaps — she did not know — 

"Twere half in earnest after all. 
Oh ! could it be her life did show 

No transient good, however small ? 

Such thoughts did not for long oppress ; 

More cheery ones did crowd them out : 
However much she might digress 

From the path her friends thought right, — 

She knew there was a " higher power " 
Which did her inmost thoughts direct ; 

And loving hearts, whose watchful care 
Still would guide her and protect ; 

Since they did know and understand 
The motive-potver which did control: 

They led her gently by the hand, 
Whispering kindly, " All is well." 



128 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

I would I mii^lit to you relate 

All the various ways l)y wliicli 
She was direcled iu the right; 

'Twould make a chapter rare and rich, — 

]jut of too great a uiagnitude 

To here insert, for want of space. 

So out of all the plenitude 
I'll only cite one little case, — 

One which was manifested by 
The word of God : I will explain 

How it did unto her apply, 

And how her mind did it retain. 

It was when first she left her home ; 

She had not been long in " the way," 
Nor had her heart and mind become 

Fully persuaded what was true, — 

Or what was false, regarding what 

Tlie world did term the "Old and New." 

One night she listened to a chat 

Between some friends wlio chanced to be 

Seated (piite near her on the cars. 

They both, it seemed, Avere quite " advanced," 
Yet wide apart, in all tlieir views, 

For one did love and also trust ' 



MLSUNDERRTOf)!). 129 

Her Saviour still, believing;' liiiii 

To be onr pattern and our guide ; 
That all would reach that blessed lunne, 

Who by his precepts did abide. 

She did not tliink, as once she had, 
His death alone could save the world ; 

But by the sinless life he led. 

And by his precepts kind and mild, — • 

Much more than l)y the blood he shed, 
Would all the vvcn'ld be reconciled; 

For if luH Hood Ix; all we need, 

'J'hen why should others be reviled, — 

Be persecuted too, and killed ? 

Many martyrs had there been ; 
Much innocent blood had been spilled : 

W\\y did not these for sin atone? 

Was not the merit just the same ? 

Or had there been no justice shown ? 
We have l)een tauj^'ht " no other name " 

Under heaven hath been given 

Which can or will sav(.' sends alive: 

(), tlien together let us reason. 
While we our free o]nnions give. 

Although to some it nuiy seem treason. 



130 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Her friciul did tlion expostulate 

(_81ie ne'er had known a Saviour's love) ; 
She said it had not been her fate 

To know or feel there was above 

A holy God who reigned supreme. 

If not a God, then not a Son : 
Life was to her no idle dream ; 

AVhate'er we had, ourselves did win ; 

Not only in our present state, 
But also in the world to come : 

Thus, if we do our neighbor hate, 
Our neighbor will hate us in turn. 

AVe must our oioi '' salvation work," 
Although wiili trembling and with fear; 

"We had no right to duty shirk. 

But slunilil our burdens uu^ekly bear. 

Our friend of eourse eould not agree 
To all she heard on either side ; 

But what eame last she knew to be. 
If not of truth entirely void, — 

So mixed and dazed she eould not tell 
Where the division line should fall ; 

She kept on thiidving, thinking, still. 
And wondering if, after all, — 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 131 

It could be true, there was no Saviour ; 

Then she would drive these thoughts away, 
Imploring aid that they might never 

Again disturb her peaceful day. 

That night, before she did retire, 

She took her Bible, and did read 
Just where it chanced to ope for her ; 

These were the words her eyes first met : — 

" Let not your heart be troubled : 

Ye believe in God, believe also in me." 

Had not her prayer been duly answered, 
All in God's own appointed way ? 

She felt it had, and ne'er again 

Did doubt the Saviour or his love ; 

Whatever others miglit maintain. 
Her heart was lixed on God above. 

This I have given you to show 

How tilings which others might call chance, 
('Tis any thing but chance, I trow), 

Did oft transpire to her advance ; 

As well as to tliose things confirm 

Which might seem doubtful or untrue. 

Her light was made to brightly shine. 
By what did come in this sweet way. 



132 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

It long" had been licr custom to 

( )ne chapter read each day in course, 

And still another one also 

Shu had been Avont to read by " chance." 

It seemed to her she never read 
That holy book without a guide, 

To help interpret for her good 

The passages she most did need, — 

And point out others which she liad 
Pondered so many times before. 

And yet their meaning, until then. 
Had never been to her made clear. 

Before I leave my x^resent theme, 
The theme of " Jesus and his love," 

I would express some thoughts which come, 
And which I trust you will receive 

In explanation of the fact ; 

For the fact I don't deny, 
That many do the truth obstruct. 

By assuming what to me 

Seems wholly inconsistent Avitli 

My present or ni}^ past belief. 
I claim to have an inward g)-owth, 

A knowledue which has e'er been rife 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 133 

Willi sweetest pleasure unto mc, 
And which, instead of shuttini^ out 

A Saviour's love in a det^'ree, 

Hath seemed to make nie more devout ; 

More filled with love and tliaidvfulness 

For the bright and golden deeds 
Which in his life we all may trace ; 

And sweet and holy words 

Of wisdom pure, and love sincere ; 

And, more than all, his sympathy 
For and with all those who were 

Sad or distressed in any way. 

And this I think to be tlie case 

Witli those who are recipients 
Of jdl his wondrous love and grace ; 

Whose tender hearts, with good intents, — 

Are seeking for the best of gifts. 

When such as these do, in advance 
Of worldly minds, fulfill their trusts, 

Jt doth their earthly joys enhance, — 

And l)ring them nearer God and heaven. 

Now, if I understand aright, 
I'liis is tlie truest ex[)osition 

Of every earnest Cluistian heart 

12 



134 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Wlio doth this spirit poAver discern. 
His own enjojnnent doth incrciise 

As his ])erceptions grow more keen ; 
AVhile ho so gladly doth emhrace 

Each opi)ortnnity to learn 

What spirits pure can only teach. 

There is a class who have not known 
A Saviour's love ; although they reach 

And grasp the truths Ave here maintain. 

That spirits do return to earth, 
And with their loved ones do commune. 

Even though themselves the truth 

Of Christian graces have not learned. 

And these are they who do obstruct 
The truth which elsewise Avould have gained 

A firmer foothold, and rellect 

A purer flame of love and light 
Than at the present time it doth, 

Or will, Ave fear, until this blight 
Be overpast, or crushed beneath 

The tidal wave of Christian love, 
Combined Avith that of spiriUpotoer. 

So long as sjtirils from above 
Do promiscuously shower 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 135 

Their individual ideas, 

When and where they find a chance, 
Regardless oi all human laws, 

Only so they may*advance 

Some theory which is to them 

The Alpha and Omega still, 
Just as it was in former time, 

When they upon the earth did dwell. 

(For we affirm that there are 

Countless numbers " gone before," 

Whose minds can not at all compare 
With our noblest minds still here.) 

So long, I say, as these have power 
To still control our earth-born sons. 

Us it bchooveth to ])cware ; 

And trust not to our outward sense, — 

But to our inner vision pure 

Bring forward to our present aid ; 

Thus making us most doubly sure 
That holy spirits only guide. 

We can, I think, discriminate 

Between the evil and the good 
By the lessons they impart. 

If these are rightly understood. 



136 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

And, as I have said before, 

Mucli depends upon ourselves. 

If we desire only the pure, 

We must, of course, be f»ure ourselves. 

We do not blame our Christian friends 
For being cautious ; 'tis most wise : 

And he who with this caution blends 
A loving spirit, which denies 

Only when it of wrong is sure. 

That soul we count a jn-ize indeed ; 

One we most gladly would secure. 
To help us in our time of need. 

For at tlie present time there are 

Scores of noble-minded men 
Deeply lliinking, wondering where 

This controversy, widely known, — 

Will lead unto ; and what result 

Will accrue from the same ; 
These men hav,e doubtless also felt 

That it would be unwise in them 

To even let these thoughts be known ; 

At least until themselves were sure ; 
Or, rather, till " this thing had grown," 

And shown 'twas likely to endm-e. 



MISUNDEKSTOOD. 137 

Forgetting, in their selfishness, 

How much they might advance tlie cause, 
If they did nothing more nor less 

Except to surely not refuse 

Or be unwilling to express 

Their interest, or strong desire. 
Whichever one might be the case, 

To learn the truth ; which doth appear 

At the present time, to be 

So mixed with error it is hard 
The demarkation line to see. 

Or separate the good from bad. 

It is we think, by some proclaimed 

That materialistic views 
Are at present gaining ground, 

But this, we think, is not the case ; 

Although the tendency is strong 

To jump at that conclusion, if 
"We do ourselves the cruel wrong 

To first accept our friend's belief 

Without investigating firstly. 

Using our own good common-sense, 

And that too, freely, justly. 

Both in the past and present tense. 

12* 



138 MISUNDEKSTOOD. 

1 tliiiik the rciisou why 'lis claimed 
These same materialistic views 

Have done, or arc, now ^ainiiij];' ground, 
Is because our darkened eyes 

Are just beginning for to see ; 

Or, liaving seen, to this p(!rceive. 
A child may chance in nuuTy glee 

To 2*lii<^"k a rose ; and thus receive 

A thoru within his tender ilesh. 

lie can not comprehend the cause, 
But kicks and screams, and cuts a dash, 

And throws away the lovely rose. 

Now, we are all but children here ; 

All searching for some scented rose, 
Which iu the distance doth appear 

To bear no thorns ; but as we close 

Around the bush, and look with care. 
The slender stem indeed hath thorns, 

It may be less, it may be more. 
'J'he lovely rose the bush adorns ; 

But, if we wish it for our own. 

We it uiusl |)Iu('lc with earnest care ; 

Avoiding thus the prickly thorn, 
While we the scented rose secure. 



MISHNDKllSTOOI). 139 

Now, this, I lliiiik, doMi illiisl,i;it(; 

T\]() Ijciuiiirul iiiid j^lorioiis ii'iiih, 
Which .soincliincs only Kliaios the i'iitu 

Of that sweet rose the child cast forth. 

Now, what I wisli to ask is this: — 
Oii!L;ht we not to have wiser grown, 

And ciilhid the rose we would ])OSHes«, 
Casting aside its (3vcry thorn ? 

Or should we, like the simple child, 

Cry out with ang(!r and disgust, 
VVliilc our sweet pleasure all is spoiled, 

The lovely rose we too liave lost? 

I fear I have not yet made [jlain 

What seems to me so very clear : 
So, if you jjhiase, we'll take again 

The rose-tree with its thorny brier. 

The rose itself we would compare 

To spirit power and influence ; 
The prickly thorns can only share 

In tlie materialistic sense. 

Now, as I said before, the thorns 

You (h) not in the distance see : 
'^I'he rose so beautiful adorns 

Th(! hjaf'y branch(;s of the tree. 



140 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

But as you uear approach the same, 
AVith both your eyes wide open quite, 

Yours alone will be the blame, 

If these same thorns escape your sight. 

But if you trust unto a friend 

Who hath been there iu foruier time. 

His eyes, Alas ! so Avcak aud blind, 
He only saw the rose sublime, — 

And grasped it firmly by ilie stem, 

His hands, poor things ! are lilled with thorns ; 
The rose has lost for him its charm. 

With saddened heart he now returns. 

Bewailing his unlucky fate, 

And telling all the neighbors round 

The rose is placed there for a bait ; 
And thorns done they there will find 

If they attempt to press too near. 

We know the tendency is strong 
To judge of things as they appear. 

It takes you not one-half as long 

To just accept your neighbor's word : 
He has been there, and surely knows. 

But, my friends, it is not good 

For you to trust to these and those. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 141 

It hatli been said, and wisely too, 

" If you would have a tliinc,^ done well, 

Do it yourself: " this will aj)|)ly 

Unto your case. If you would still 

Tlu; plain, uiigarnished irulli lorc^know. 
Depend not much upon " Jioai-say," 

But rather JiU your powers bestow. 
And search for it in wisdom's way; 

Then you will reap a rich reward, 
Obtain the promised blessing too ; 

And, ever trusting in the Lord, 
Will keep his precepts all so true. 

To my dear i'rieuds, sisters, brothers, 
Who still inhabit the mundane sphere ; 
I will strive to give to him who gathers 
Some kind instruction and good cheer. 

I left that sphere for this bright one, 
I scarce can tell how long ago ; 
Though I am sure it must have been 
A score of years, and may be more. 

I little thought, before I came, 

My spirit could return to earth. 

And there my intercourse resume 

With my dear friends who thought it worth 



142 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Their while to spend their time this -way ; 
But it hath proved a living truth, 
And one which will the nation sway ; 
And every soul which dwells on earth 

Will in due time confirm it too : 
Though not for countless ages, some 
Whose souls are filled with sin and woe ; 
It suits them better to become 

The servants of the " Evil One ; " 
And, if they do return at all, 
'Twill only be to such an one 
As they can make stumble and fall. 

Many there are who know this truth, 
But would not for the world disclose. 
For they have not that heavenly birth 
Which our dear Saviour doth indorse. 

Although their spirits have gone forth 
From their fleshly tabernacle. 
They still Avalk " to and fro " on earth, 
Unfitted to with angels dwell. 

But this, I feel, is not my forte, 
I like an argument the best. 
And I will try to it support. 
However much others molest. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 143 

Perliaps, to make the matter plain, 
I'll have to tell you what I saw, 
And also how the thing was done : — 
The medium through whom I now 

Convey my thoughts did just pick up 
A scrap of paper lying near ; 
(I made her do it sure as pop) 
My spirit stood beside her chair ; 

And so, you see, what she did read, 
I also read, and, through her eyes ; 
Well, now, this was a way I had 
Of " putting things : " it gave surprise ; 

For she had never thought, before, 
That any thing of this import 
Could or would come through her, 
And, least of all, get into print ; 

But the impression was so strong, 
(At first she felt a little shy) 
That she could not resist it long : 
Nor did she think it best to try. 

Now we will give you what we read. 
Word for v/ord, and not transpose ; 
So there will be nothing to lead 
You my friend to me accuse : — 



144 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

"• It is inconceivable that any Coni^rcgational- 
ist, or any real Christian, slionld not have been 
unspeakably glad and grateful if the trial of 
Henry Ward Beechcr had resulted in his tri- 
iuu})hant acquittal." 

Now, my dear friends, 1 this do quote, 
Knowing not (or earing nniclO 
Whom by, or where, the piece was wrote ; 
Its logic doth my soul retouch 

With a strange feeling, (piite akin 
To pity, mingled with disgust; 
No single word, it will bo seen. 
Doth here denote the writer's trust 

That Truth will be made manifest, 
lint only that dear Henry Ward 
Might be before the world confessed 
An honest man, as if, indeed, — 

It mattered not what he had done, 
Or whether he had txdd the truth, 
But only that the court liad shown 
He was of more inlinite worth 

Unto the world, than Truth itself. 
Now, I dt) like consistency; 
It is to me a great relief 
That morally, religiously, — 



MTSIJNDERSTOOI). 145 

There are some few (I wish '(.wore more) 
Who hibor to advance the truth ; 
These are tlie ones, you may be sure, 
Who have received the spirit birth ; 

While those who do more k)udly prate, 
But show they are afraid of truths — 
'Twill be their everlasting fate 
To search it out, and learn its worth, 

"J'is "sharper than a two-edged sword; " 
And why should not they l)e afraid ? 
Do those who love their risen Lord 
E'er feel of him tlie least afraid? 

I say ye Nay, unless it be 
A fear that they may liim offend. 
And Ihus it is with truth also: 
Those who do l)y it firmly stand 

Have nought to fear from friend or foe, 
Although they will most likely be 
Persecuted as their dear Lord 
Was before them, and did say 

Others should be for ti'utlfs sake. 
His words did prove, Alas ! too true : 
INIany have been burned at the stake. 
And many more have suffered through 

13 



no 



^usiNoiMisroon, 



Soro t rlbularuMis tl;iik ;nul i.\cc\'> 
All broui^ht iipvMi iluMti by ilnMv linn 
AJlun-iMii'o to iUc'w lijvbl to ki\'p 
'riiiMT Lovil's roniniaiuls as unto [\\r\n 

SiHMiu'vl rii^ht ami jiisi ; \vhiK> for I lu'ir j^uitlo 
Thov took tlu'ir l.oriTs anoiiiiiHl Son. 
Ami bv his pnu'epts iliil abiilo, 
lu\i;anlloss oV all worKlly scorn. 

'bho c.xvih has brou so long" ovoiMl-bouml. 
li soiMns just in>\\ all in a ma/o 
NN'ilh [HH^i^lo stauiliu!;' all aiouml, 
'riu'iusolvos in a bow iUliMotl ihu'.o; 

Ov, as a I'lioml unto us wvoto, 
Thuj^ly it iliil sooni to hor; 
Tho botton\ had boon all Unookod out 
0( c\ci\ thin;;' — -and ovorvwhovo — 



Confusion roignod — ns in tho Oluuvh — 
80 in tho Stato — rog-avdinLi' pastoi-s — 
lvo>;arding ju'oplos all in soaroli 
C'^f nonu'thiihf — what oxpositois — 

Thoso la\v\ ovs arol — l^ooolior ;;uiliy? 
Ask thorn — ho hath many frionds, 
Yos — (hoy aro strong and u\ighty: 
llavo ihoy aooomplit^hod all thoir ouds? 



MIHUNDICItHTOOI). H7 

Ali;i! ri<t(, y(!(, — iiiclJiiiil'.:i iiol, ycl, — 

W(! pil.y liini — if iiuioccnl- — 

Hill, if K"'"'y — '"^'^ .y^' wliiil, 

VV(! iriif^lit Uiink? AhIc uh uol — 

Tfioii^'li if hobo — tfifi tlioiJHiui'l lirri<!H — 
VVc- \i\iy liirn — more ilian if 
"i'wcn; olJicrwiHO — lOIi/zalxiUi — IjoiiinoH — 
Wlicrci in hIh- ? no iri;i,l,l,(;f if - 

Well — <li<I you Hii-y — fVi(jrir]H — Oli I jio — 
iS'/i.r. luilli. lut j'rir.ndM - hImj i'k only 
ARci' all — jusi, ii, wdvui.n — Oli ! 
KxoiJHO- — j»;u<loii tfM; -for Kii rely — 

11' \\\;\\, \\\'A\\ — <]i(l coriimil, - a Hin — 
lie, JH /iol> l,o hliUiK; ;i,l; all 
Vin- (>r coui'HO 'tvvaH her [\\',\\, Jiiadc hirn, 
All ! ){i',w — \ iJfKlfifHLijfw] il, ;i,ll — 

Sf)oak to h(!i' ? — not I — liovv can you ? — 
So (lo^iv'ulod — low — a/xl rrican I — 
iJali I Hiicli a <]iH^rao(} ! — well, Ww Uiiougli — 
Only — ycH — \ Hay— kick \\iy dow/i — 

And cniHli licr s^-x}j life onl- — 
SIk; doscrvcH 11/ — our diiuj^hiorH dour — 
.JiihI, lliink of il, — IIk; proHliluU; — 
Such an cxanif)lc — I Tear — 



148 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

But Beeeher, our bolovod pastor. 
So noblo, so true I and, luy dear. 
His beautiful life anil labor ! 
It is too eruel, I declare — 

! sueh delightful sermons. 
So s]>arkling and so eloquent ! 
And then sueh life-like lessons! 

1 do think he is elegant. 

Well, thev con not erush him — 
I am ,>^(' thankful for that I — 
The very idea — well — some time — 
AVhetlier he is guilty, ov not, — 

Pshaw ! — what matters it ? who eares ? — 
Not I — it don't liurt his preaching — 
But some do — put on airs — 
Afraid indeed — not of his teaehing — 

His ehureh is Ulled — unto the steeple — 
And sueh lovely llowers — 1 never — 
" Oh I praijti^ him, all ye people I " 
" Laud and nuiguiiV him forever." 



I trust, my friends, you will exeuse. 
For this was not on the programme 

It eame to me : I couldn't refuse 
To write it down, this very same. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 149 

It lias, of conrso, iion<j;lit to do 

Witli my o])iiiiou in tlio case; 
And you will iiudcrstaii<l also 

That its chief object was to place 

Before your mind the differeuco 
Of public opiuiou, fault the same ; 

As for the man no consequence, 
]>ut for the tvornan all the shame. 

(I just did say, the fault the same, 

]iut in truth I did not mean it ; 
For in nine cases out of ten 

1 thiidi the man the most to blame.) 

Now ask yourselves if 'tis not so : 
There are of course exceptions, but 

They are comparatively few: 
Nor is it men ak)ne who sit 

(If I except the courts of hiw) 
In jud<:^in(nd. on their own victims : 

Our mothers and our sisters too, 
I blush for very shame to own, — 

Would crush into the very dust, 

Instead of stooping to upraise. 
Kindly teachiug them to trust 

In Jlim who did contrariwise 

13* 



150 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Once say, in tones so kind and mild, 

" Neither do I thee condemn." 
Ahis ! my lieart is often filled 

With sadness, as I think of them, — 

The poor misguided ones of earth ; 

Nor do I think them all to blame : 
Their teachings have been little worth, 

For so their conduct doth proclaim. 

I Avould we might have for them schools, 
These poor deserted, homeless ones ; 

AVhich should teach them they have sotds. 
As well as bodies, — precious ones ; 

Which sold it is their duty plain 
To strive to malvC, and also keep 

Pure and spotless ; that the stain 

AVliich hath been made is not so deep 

But it can all be washed away ; 

O, teach them purity alone 
Can satisfy the heart alway, 

And for past errors too atone ; 

O ! lead them kindly, gently; then 
Awaken all their slumbering hopes. 

Go teach them what they might have been, 
And still may be, if He who keeps 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 151 

Them in the " hollow of his hand" 

Is duly served, and asked aright 
To guide them to that " ?jettor land 

Where there can be no gloomy night." 

I did not think so soon to leave 

The " Beecher case ; " but so it was, 

Though he who did of it conceive, 
Also the subject introduce, — 

Has now returned, and would here give 

His own opinion of the same : 
" Yes my friends, and we believe 
This thing to be no child's play game, 

Although the world may scoff at this 
And us deride, for what we give ', 
Thinking, perhaps, 'tis all amiss, 
We ask of them no kind reprieve. 

Nor is it our purpose here to tell 
What he may not, or may have done. 
Ask the lawyers — who do sell — 
Themselves for gold — not every one — 

1 don't mean that, — excuse me sir, — 
No personalities I'll give, — 
From me you sir have nought to fear — 
Unless — indeed — you did receive — 



152 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

(Un) fair pay for all your work sincere ; 
Thanks tt) find some honest men 
Among those jurors did appear, 
Some noble souls who have not been 

Either bought or sold (!) I ween, 
Blessings on their precious heads 
And treated too, so very mean — 
With not so much as feather-beds 

To lay their wear}'- limbs upon — 
Oh ! if they only — could — agree — 
But they couldn't — so don't repine. 
As for myself — I tell you true 

I'm glad they didn't — for if they had — 
Don't you see — the world at large — 
(I don't mean all) would have said — 
" J told you so " that judge's charge — 

Judge's charge indeed, as if one man — 
Could or should — judge for the world — 
Not even He — the Lord Christ — 
Would do that — but He just told 

Them where to go — no earthly court — 
You may be sure — well I don't know — 
People will quarrel — and get hurt — 
And then I suppose — they don't know — 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 153 

What else to do — kick up a row 
And go to law — what have they gained ? 
Well, let's see — not much I trow — 
The gain is on — the other hand — 

The lawyer's hand — I mean — or in it — 
But I mustn't wander — or digress — 
As I suppose you would call it — 
The trouble is — I was kept close — 

In my younger days — not much learning — 
But what I want to say is this — 
Most things have changed — or are changing 
And that, too — for the better. 

Now a great deal is said of late — 
About the " social question " — 
And people ask — what is that? 
Let them find out by their learning — 

Beecher wouldn't tell yoii — nor shall I — 
A great many people — ^on\ preach — 
What they practice — it used to be — 
This way — don't practice what they preach — 

But as I say things have changed — 

People have changed — and much is done — 

Which isn't told of — 'tis so arranged — 
That one may do — what another one — 



154 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Well ii" he does do — lie'Il gel Ibiiiid out — 
lie hasn't learned Mie kinlcs — you sec, 
And if lie is pnnislied for it — 
Why — it is all right you say — 

But just look here — these very ones — 
Who iniliet this punishment — 
Do themselves — these very same things — 
Are tliey punisluMl, I guess not — (niui'h) 

Now my dear friends, 1 su})pose you (liiuk 
Me very old-fasliioned, and cjueer, 
But if you woukl liuve — pure water to drink 
You must first be sure — that the fountain is 
clear. 

IJut when you do see — the water is had — 
Its taste and its smell — you do not approve, 
Then I would advise — that some of you 

s]u.)idd — 
Just lind out the cause — and try to remove — 

And now to do this — the very best way — 
Is to go to the bottom — and see what is 

there — 
Youmaypum]) off the top — oreveuhalf way — 
AikI lind i(> jio better — than it was before. 

Indeed you will inid — unless I mistake 
Whatever is wrong — at tlie very last end — 



M I H U N I )ERHTOOI>. 1 T) 5 

You may find on tlu; Kiiiracc — perhaps if yoii 

look — 
Some very siiiiill tiling — wliicli doMi not 
^ tend — 

To Iwina in llio least — the taste or the smell — 
JUit way to tlio 1)0tt()in — where no one can 

see — 
Ah! (h('i(! you will hnd i(, — a.n(l you will (!(» 

well — 
To fathom at onee — nor longcsr delay — 

Now when you disturb the waters — of 

course — 
They will mem more nnpleasant — than ever 

before — 
But what if they do — you will sure have 

more sense — 
Than to think these same waters — will ever 

grow pure — 

When the cause is removed — and time has 

been given — 
To refill the fount — with sweet gciiiLle 

showers — 
And freshening rains — from out the j)ino 

heavens — 
What a pleasing reward — will thcui Ix; yoiu'S. 



1 no MTSTTNT>1CK ST( >OD. 

Alul now my ilriir iViiMuls, 1 (liink lo cinnparo, 
The jM'OSonl i'oiiililion, of soi-ioty Iumi', 
To afounlain whoso waters, :iro noi wholly ]>nro, 
Yot siiroly iu> worso, than (luy liavo .vboiMi 
bd'ovo. 

r>ul it Avas tlioUi;"hl. bost, (his 1'ouii(aiii (o c'h>ar. 
So o[' I'ourso — (listui'biuL;- (lie waters you 

know 
Tliey seiMii pretty bail — and even apjiear, 
A great (h>al worse — all the time to gn>w : 

"Well this is the Avny — with soi-iety now, 

It is all stirred np — and the odor is bad. 

Anil all jnst. beeause — the thinL;s you don't 

l;n(»w — 
Are eoming to light — I'or whirli we ari> glad. 

The fountain is large — and nnieh to be dono 
¥a-o von ean giM rid — o\' the nuisance yet — 
r>ut 1 i>rav you clear jViends — don't leave it 

alone — 
Just go lo the bottom — and Kt\- ivhai i/oii tjU't. 

Pon't gt>( discouraged and give up the job. 

And also be earel'ul — not to t/cf /di 

It will almost require — "the jtatiem-e of 

Job " — 
To do this same thing — and get matters right. 



MIHUNDKllS'lOni). U>1 

]f :i]l w(M'(! williii;^' — 1() do l)iit. Ili(^ir Hharc — 
llowciisily llicii — ll)(! woi'k iiii^^lit Ix; done — 
I'.iil, (»ii(! will sl:iii(l licic — iiiid iiiKtlJicr (tiu! 

Ili(;n! — 
Dili ml;' iiothiiij^' iU, ill! — h'idjiiHl, in look on — 

SI ill olJKirs — will do — ovoii worse; iJiiiii ili:i<, 
Tlicy will ivy to discounigu — those who woidd 

vvoik — 
J*rovi)i,^' this !idjig(! — triio unto tho dot — 
" Vi)\' Satiui finds soitM! iiiischiof si ill 

l*\)r idh; liiiiids to do" — now wliiit wc do 

Wllllt — 

And are determined lo h;iv<! — is jiihI'icc iind 

('.(I'lialily — 
You may tlicow uj) your liiuids -;ind s;iy ''no 

you don't," 
We tell you in time — 'twill he a rcal'il ij. 

Vuy I )(,'()] )l<! iii'c now — hc^^innin^' lo I hink — 
TIk; inoi-(; they do lliiid< — Hie moi'e thi;y will 

kniow — 
l''i'oni tli(! fountain of knowledj^e — W(;M hiive 

I h(;in idl drink 
i\\u\s'\\\'^ wiser iuid hettei- (!very day — 

And souk; vvhoni now — )oii pielcnd lo lliinl'. 
Ar(! heiKtath you in Htyle — (as VV(; hojKilhey 
an;; J4 



158 MTSUNPEE STOOD. 

^Viul uoithor do liavo — so iiuu'h roaUy chink — 
('Tis -well thoY Jo not — for 'tis often a snaro) 

Are rising- in intoUoet — by force of their will — 
While Tou it may be — are stamling quite still — 
These soon -will pass by yon — ascenilini^- the 

hill — 
Nor can yon o'ertake them — try as you Avill — 

Becanse yon can not — or Avill not give np — 
Yonr increasing desire — for Inxnry and ease. 
And now my dear friends — it" you \\ i>uld only 

stop — 
And listen to me awhile — if yon please — 

1 would like to convince yon — though T fear 

I shall not — 
That you had better begin — before you leave 

there — 
To lay np your treasure — iu some better 

spot- 
Thau von seem to be doing — if it ri«'hilv an- 

pear — 

What think you to do — witli the gold you 

have got — 
'Twill be of no use — in this heavenly sphere — 
Indeed you can't bring — one tittle or jot — 
And however much — you may sigh for it 

here — 



MIHUNDEESTOOD. 150 

'Twill not bo forilicoiniiig' — and you will re- 
pine — 

For your elegant surroundings — and dainties 
rare — 

Which you used for your comfort — and yours 
alone — 

Refusing with the poor and needy to share — 

'Tis a far-reaching truth — that 'tis harder hy 

far — 
For a rich man to enter — the kingdom of 

love — 
Than for the desolate and downtrodden poor — 
Whose treasure is more likely — to be hi id up 

above — 

T would not by this — have you to infer — 
That I'iches are valueless — if rightly applicid — 
That they will give you ranch comfort, and add 

to jowv store 
Of good deeds and true — can't be denied — 

If you are unselfish and willing to share — 
With others the blessings they bring unto 

you — 
While at the same time, you are molding with 

care — 
The spirit within you valiant and true. 



160 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

I think I must leave you, for one is now here, 
Who gave up her time, and place unto me, 
I fear I've not made my logic very clear. 
Nor could I do well, Avith this jingling "Poetry." 

But what I liave given, in the spirit of love, 
I trust you will kindly receive that same way. 
And be guided aright to your home above 
So kindly prepared for you and for me. 



To my dear friends, greeting again ! 

I am happy to be with you. 
But I also trust that 3'ou have been 

Entertained and instructed too 

By our revered and dear friend. 
Who kindly volunteered to give, 

As he did express it, a " piece of his mind : " 
'Twas a pleasure to him, I believe, — 

As I know it has been to 3'ou ; 

And possibly he will again 
Address you in his language true ; 

As he can many things explain, — 

Far better than I who have not been 

So long an inhabitant here ; 
Nor have I perceptions as keen. 

Or an understanding so clear. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 161 

I will endeavor now to trace 

The history I had commenced, 
And give our friend's experience, 

Although it will be much condensed, — 

And many things left out entire, 

For want of space, and want of time. 

I have accorded unto her 
A gift most rare, also divine. 

She prized it, too, all else above, 
And strove to cultivate the same ; 

Trusting that He, the God of love, 

Would all the crooked ways make plain. 

The happiest moments she did know, 
(I may have told you this before) 

Were those she spent in listening to 
Her faithful friend, so good and pure ; 

He oft did give some symbol sweet, 

And afterward explain the same ; 
This was to her a richer treat 

Than what in other ways did come. 

One of these symbols I will give, 

As nearly as I can express : 
Its memory will forever live, 

Her loving soul to cheer and bless. 

14* 



1G2 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

She took lier usual seat beside 

The friend through whom this same did come, 
Wondering what would be said, 

Wlien the medium thus bejran : — 

" I see you seated," (she did say) 

" Within an arbor covered o'er 
With trailing vines all bare and gray, 

Except on either side the door, — 

Where are two tiny sprouts of green, 

So fresh, and growing rapidly; 
Aside from these, no leaf is seen 

On all the vine, which carefully 

I did examine for to see 

If life were there, and, to my joy, 
Found it 'twas green, and juicy too, 

Underneath the bark so dry ; 

Antl also that the tiny buds 

Had even now begun to swell. 
You seem to be in pensive mood, 

All quite alone, yet looking well ; 

Before you is a table spread 

Willi papers scattered here and there, 
And papers also by your side ; 

Some books, I see, are lying near ; 



MISUNDEKSTOOD. 163 

Now these same papers all arc filled 
With writings from some wieldy pen ; 

A gentle breeze — my heart is stilled — 
While now from every mount and glen — 

Come tiny birds — so beautiful — 
Of every kind — and every hue — 

They almost now the arbor fill — 
And many, too, have lit on you. 

Ah ! now I see their mission here. 

Each one does with its little bill 
A paper take, and disappear, 

Bearing it where'er he will. 

These birds I would that you might see, 
For some have come from foreign shore, 

Their plumage is so bright and gay ; 
Many I've never seen before ; 

They all have flown, like the " carrier dove," 
Unto their own bright native land, 

Bearing with them tidings of love 
No powers of earth can countermand. 

You still are sitting there alone: 

Indeed, your life has mostly been 
Alone thus far : there seemeth none 

Who can at all enter within 



ICI 



IMISIINDIOIJS'I'OOK. 



'.riic siUTcd priM'iiK'ls ol' \i)iii' soul. 
Hill iidw I sec, !i(lviiii('iii<;- iu>;ir, 

A H'tMllllMllilM lldl \V\-\ l;lll 

l>iil niliuM- stoiil willi lliick !;r:iv li;iir — 

.llt< iip|)n)jirliolh very (Miitioiislv, 

/\s if ill (loubl. Iiow l(> prorccd, 
.A(l\ niicrs ii. sl('|» — t lit'ii t iiriis ;i\\ ;i\', 

.As if frariii!;- Ii(« iiii!;'lil disl ml) 

Or IVi!;lil(Mi \(ui : 'lis piniii lo si>o 
I Ic is (|iiili^ anxious lo (ii'aw near ; 

Some riiliirc lime |M'rlia|)s lie iiia\, 
l'\>r so i|. (lol li (o till" appear. 

Oil ! can litis 1)1' I lit> same arhor 

I saw I»(>roi'(> ? w lial a eliaii_!.;e I 
The vine wliieli llieii was dry and bam 

Js beiiulii'ul : it yt'i'uis so strauL;o 

'Dial, ill lliis lidle space of lime 

II. could iia\(< |)ul roiili all lliese l(>a\('sl 

ll is indeed a. work siihliiiie. 

JwOiivt^s dark, lea,ves l!!;lil, lai!;i> li>a\i>s, small 
leavos, — 

All lliesc are lierc^ roriuiiiuf ii sIkuIo 

So cool and so rtdVivsliiiiM- (oo ; 
And now 1 sei>, llie liow er onlsidi>. 

Such loNch llowcrs all wcl wilh dew, — 



Ml.SUNDIOIiSrooi). IGt 

Just spi'higino- lip ; tlioy arc Jiol Jiciir 
Enough for you to pluck just yet ; 

Still not so very, very far, 

And you do now their JVagrance get." 

After depicting all this scene, 

Pier pastor said there scarce was need 

For liim to it at all explain ; 

For she, he thought, correctly read 

What thoy intended to confer 

In this Yv.ry ])lc;i,siiig way. 
It did, of course, })ertain to her ; 

And she would yet sec the day 

When this symbol sweet should he 
Fully realized, although just now 

It seemed incredible that she 
Could so much benefit bestow 

(Incredil)le to h(;r, Ik; meant) 

Upon her race. 'Twas also true 
That tlie papers he had shown 

Would be fdled ; and written, too, — 

By her own hand, just every one, 
Scatt(!r(;d, also, l)oth far and wide. 

As unto lici' it had been shown, 
IJy the birds who did ])rcside, — 



1(U) MISITNDERSTOOD. 

And (aki' inl(» (Iumi- own (K>;ir liaiuls 
(^Or bills jnsd-ad) (ho iii;lit to help 

As host, (liov 111 lull ( ; and distanl^ Iniuls 
VVonld bless lliom i'ov tlioir silent work. 

Tlie vino, of eourso, did represent 

llev own nuHlinniistit^ ])ower, 
.lust bet;'innin;4' now io sprout; 

.r>u( wliii'h, in lime, liki> lliis sweet bower, — • 

A voo\ rcl'iesjiiiii;' sliadc* would i'orni 
For WH>arv, lieart-siek souls of eiu'th; 

Shielding' lluun from many a. storm. 
While leaeliiui^' oi" the hea\eiily birth. 

" Tlie i^entliMuan who was described 

Seems to possess an earnest soul, 
AVhieh is with \o\0 and truth ind)ibed. 

Jb' hath 110 intentions foul, — 

But is attrai'ted nnto you 

}\y your earnest, truthful faee, 
And wouhl sonu^ kindly word bestow, 

SaAi> that' he fi^ars to give oi'leuse. 

1 think he will, in future years, 

Come very near, and you assist. 
For so io me it now" appears. 

Between you there seems to exist 



MiaUNDKKH'I'OOl). I(i7 

A (^oimiKtii clMiid of syiii|);il liy 

K(ig"iir<liii.!^' !ill I his (Irii'kciicd rnco : 

Yoii cJicrisli I'or liiuiiiuiil.y 
A siicrc'd lovi;, :iihI ;iIsu pl.'ico 

Y()ii)'S(!lvcH ill ii coiidilion (o 

Aiii(:li()i'ii,(-(! iJic. siiCrcriiii^M 
( )!' Iiiiiii:ui liciiils vvliicli yi)ii do l<ii()vv 

TIk! sill of i;4ii()i;uic(; oil, hriiij^'S. 

'J'liis s(!ciiis lo l)(! IJk! <»iily lio 

Wliic.li hinds your hciu'ls in iiiiisoii ; 

And, ii" I rigliUy (h) d(!S('jy, 
'I'licic JH IK) ii(!!U'(!r, d(';ir(!r oik;. 

'J'h(! (lowc.i'H iUH! (!iiihh;iii;i,l,i(:ii.I 

or nil Ui(! HW(ud, iiiid holy joy 
Wliich will your loviii;;' hosoiii lill, 

And ii.ll h(;c:MiS(: of your ciiiploy." 

And \vli;il. llioii;_;lil, siic, oiir friend, of iJiis ? 

Iler liniiri Wiis Wiiniiod, (inrnpljircd (,oo ; 
liiil/ could (,li(ir(! !)(;, ind('(*d, sindi hiiss 

In sioi'd lor licrV could six; h(';.li)\v 

On sisters, hrolJicrs, fiilhcrs, niolhcrs, 
lilcHHJngB Jil<(; lo iJiosc ))oili;i.y(;d 7 

]L K(!(;)ri(!d iiri])osHil)l(5 iliiil oUicis 

Could h!iv(! ihfiir lioui'ls and minds so svvjiycd 



108 IMISUNDKUSTOOD. 

Jiy whaL caiiic lliioii^li lior orginiism, 
Especially in this strange way. 

She sliould i-ocjuire a frosh baptism 
Oi' siiirit-powcr ere it couhl be. 

or all the inediuniistio powers 

WJiich she had witnessed, tliis did seem 
The most unlikely to be hers. 

INo other phase they could have named 

Would lu'r have given such surprise; 

Indeed, it seemed incredible, 
And she could not the fact disguise. 

'^ With (Jod all things arc possible." 

With thcs(! words ringing in her ears, 
" She hcpt these sayings in her licart," 

Judging not by what appears, 

For she had '■' chosen llic better j)art." 

The reason wliy it sccnii>d to her 
Tliis phase, far hvss than any other, 

Could be developed, or its power 
Manifested to Iriend or brother, — 

'i'lirough her organism, was this; 

It seemed almost imi)ossible 
For her to in this way exjjress 

Her tlioughts wbich were untraceable. 



MrSUNDKRSTOOI). KID 

At Iciist sli(5 ('-v(!r IoiiikI lliciii so, 

Wlicni iiitoinptiiig to iva-.iW Micim, 
Or to by any means ))ostow, 

Wlioro otlnsrH could retrace or read them. 

I'lioiij^^liLs would (;oin(! s|)oiitan(ious]y, 
liut no liinj^uit.ge to (ixprcss t,Iiciri. 

Slic oft would linj^cr |);iiurully 
O'er a IctLcr, ;iud I hen Ixicouic; 

• Disgusted will I il- vvIkmi 'twas done: 
Letl(jr-w riling sIk; did deUist, 
And precious Jitlle ol' it (iid. 
Indeed, slio had not in, the past 

Been situated where was need 
For corrcsf)ondencG, much if any. 

The first and only time she had 
liealized most fully, sadly, 

Her incapacity to write 

Was after visit number one 
Un(;(j lier fi-icuids, who did invite, 

Also sti'ongly insist upon, — 

A week'ly inlercliii.ngc! of iJioiiglit, 

VVliicli, us I liav(! said Ixd'orc;, 
Much hiipj)iiiess unto h(!i- bi'ought, 

Aitliougli it was a trial sore 



170 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

To do her part. Her very best, 
When it was done, did ever seem 

So very short of her behest : 

But He who did her soul redeem 

Did also teach the wisdom of 

Developing those very powers, 
Which now were dwarfed and scarce alive ; 

But only needing gentle showers, — 

Freshening dews, and warming sun, 

To make them bloom like summer flowers. 
And thus I think the omniscient One 
- Oft substitutes his way for ours ; 

While we, Alas ! are weak and blind, 
Perceiving not why we should be 

By circumstances oft constrained 

To do the things we " would not do," — 

And those we " would " to leave undone ; 

For do ye not, my friends, perceive 
The things ye are perfected in 

Need not that you should longer give 

Your time and strength to them alone ? 

]\Iany things have jq to learn ; 
And, if I rightly do divine, 

Some things which you can only learn 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 171 

By striving hard to love walk 

In the path marked out for you, 
Although it may l)e that the work 

Is not what you would have it be. 

You are, perhaps, like our dear friend, 
Deficient in something which hath 

Not crossed your over-crowded mind ; 
Something, too, of sterling worth, — 

And which doth need your earnest care 

To force it upward to the light. 
Where it in time will duly share 

The prospect of a future bright. 

Without this same, your character 

Would not be fully rounded out ; 
And, had you had no wise Director, 

'Twould not have been so brought about. 

Nor would it then, could you have had 

Your own undeviating way ; 
Some obstacle, perchance, did lead 

You to consider, and to see 

Why it had been placed before you ; 

And thus you rightly were inclined 
To pause a moment, and descry 

If a purpose were assigned. 



172 ]\nSUNDERSTOOD. 

This I think the reason wl\y 

We arc so oft impelled to make 
Sacrifices which do try 

The very "reins and heart" alike ; 

And forced also to do and hear 

'I'he I'crtf thhup ire niosl (h'alikc. 
And which may at (he lime appear 

Only of evil lo i>ar(ake. 

" (lod moA'i>s in a mysterious way, 
His wonders to perform : 
lie plants his footsteps in the sea, 
And rides npon the storm. 

His jmrposes will ripen fast, 
Unfolding- every honr ; 
The hi(d may have a hitter taste, 
But sweet win be the jlower:' 

I have told you how hard it was 

For onr younc: friend to write her tlionghts: 
Now she had still another eanse 

Of grief reg'ardino- (hose same thouuhts ; 

For the language she would use 

Ti> express them almost ahvay 
Did (lisaj>poin(, ln>r, and refuse 

Her earnest call to obey. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 173 

She oi'l; (lid feel lo envy ilioso 

Wlio seemed to have al, theii- eomraand 

A ih)vv of words, oiu! jnin'hl, siii)i)ose, 
Far too great lor their deiiiaiid. 

Not that she would exehaii^e her thoughts 
For senseless words, nor is there need, 

11" her dear (Juido rightly instructs; 
Fov sh(! will 1)y a simple mode, 

Obviate this sad defect. 

If she doth all his counsel heed, 
Taking less time to just reflect, 

And more in conversation lead : 

For in this way she would receive 
A twofold blessing, yea, and more ; 

For others would unto lu^r give, 
And she would also from her store 

lleturn the favor ; for, indeed 

Iler thoughts were well worth giving out; 
They would iill many an aching void, 

If she expressed them as she ought. 

Words seem useless without deeds, 

And express not half so much 
As do good deeds without the words ; 

But both combined will often touch 

15* 



174 IMISUNlM^KSrOlMI, 

A cliord of symimdiy and ]o\o 

III liriiris w iioso sorrows :irc> iinkinnvn, 
SiiA i> by llio s[)irils brighl. above, 

Unloss, porcluuico, soino favorod one 

ITath opoiiodiip tho fount-, of grief, 
\\y words and deeds so kind and (ruo 

Tliat it hath seiMUinl a sweiM relief 
To (has iinl)iii'deii all Iheir woe. 

()iir lovinu," friend (>\|)ress('d in doed 
'IMiat. wliii'h she failed to do at. times 

By words well idiosen, (illy applied. 

ruri> were her motives, hi^h her aims; 

Nor was slu> tronbled to i>\|>ress 

\\\ A\'ord so miieh, \vlu>re sym|>alhy 

l")r(>w forth the saiiie, to cheer and bless 
And where she found s\\«'et harmony. 

Ilor sad (h>fi>et. was more apparent. 

When she in conversation joined ; 
In eonseqneneo she oft. was silent, 

(>r she mi!_;lit soiuier have obtaineil 

'riu> nse of lano'iia^'e as (U>sired ; 

She had improNeil very ninch 
In this respect, also aei]iiir(Ml, 

Wy p(n-severaneo, the Jiabit which 



MISIINI>I01JSI'()()1>. 176 

II;i(l hcoii so kindly I'ccoiiimciKlcd. 

I liiivo its yet said iiolliiiiL;' <•!" 
TIk^ l(H'.tur(!S she wisely iil.l-ciidcd, 

And from which souiv.o slu! did rciccivo 

Muc'h hcilprid IcnowhMlnro ill rej^jard 

ITnlo her soul-iiispirini;' (litMiic ; 
She had an undcrslandinL;' Iica-i't, 

And (Md I iuMclorc readily L;lca,n 

'I'lic speaker's purpose! aiitl ini.eni,, 
Tliont^li l.rusiinL;' not to that ulono : 

IShe did most eaiididly relh'c^t, 

And thai which did nnto her sooni 

VViso and (ruthful, ^t;'hidly ucc(!j^t ; 

While, what slio couhl not thus receivo, 
Sho (hd iustinctivoly rojoct, 

Nov mako ciuhuivor to bohovo. 

I now will speak of ono (lectuvo) whieli ^avo 

Her satislaetion and dcliyht ; 
'Twas j4'iven by a " Ciollier " bravo, — 

An Englishman with nineh foresij^lit. 

He gave an ex])(»sition of 

S()ii'itiialisni in thai land, 
Ifhideavoring to show and prove 

Its benelit to all niaid<ind ; 



176 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

1 mean, ul" course, to all who would 
Accept its beautiful teachings ; 

I would that all who do this read 
Might have listened to his sayings. 

That which did me most interest 
Was with regard to mediums 

(It may have been self-interest) : 

They had, he said, few public ones, — 

As was oft elsewhere the case, — 
But had instead, within iheir homes, 

One through Avhom tliese mysteries 
Could be transmitted to their friends. 

And very pleasant too it was, 

For those who Avere thus kindly blest, 
To in the lioly twilight hours, 

When nature calls to " home and rest. 

Form a quiet circle there, 

At their dear spirit-friends' behest ; 
Commencing Avitli a fervent prayer. 

That they might make the very best 

Conditions for their heavenly guests ; 

That perfect love and harmony 
Might rule the hour which manifests 

The spirit's power so sacredly. 



MlSI'NIHOItS'l'OOl). 177 

No one can know uoi- yi;!; coiiccivo 
The happiiu'ss and j)ca(U5 ol' (lioso 

Who almost daily do roc^eivo 
L'rom the roimlani as it Uows 

" liivinj:? waters" ficsli and sweet 

As those it gave, ecjd.uries ago, 
For those who "sat at Jesns' feet " 

While li(! di<l on them all hcslow 

The "best of gills," and unto (^a,(^h 

According to his zeal and faith. 
I trust I (h) not hcrc^ impeach 

Mis eharaet(U', or \vlia,t he saith, — 

By the aualogy set forth ; 

And ye who may think otherwise 
Forget, perchance, " liis h)wly birth," 

And also fail liis life; (,o ti'aco 

In a,ll its sw('(>t siniplicity. 

Did 1 mcH^t here no opposition 
From those who have less charity 

Than had He, no ap])rehcnsion 

(^)uld I hav(!, that 1 sliould be 

In many things "misunderstood." 

Our learned friend did also say, 

Jf this bhvst truth were spread abroad, — 



178 



MiSlTNDKKsroon. 



And ]H>oj>lo wiuild riHHMVO tlio Siuno, 

TIuMr souls would soon so Ihirst. for more, 

'rii;i( tlu'V wiMild <d;i(lly ('(Mst^ lo roiiui, 
Vhc wtuKl o\ cr, I'or liuuinn loro ; 

And in tluMr |h\u'i'I'u1, linppv liouirs, 
(iol wisdom I'nuu a hi>;lu"r st)un'o, — 

From ;nid (hrouL^h Ihoir own lovoil onos 
So j^'lad and w illinj;" lo discourso 

or thini;s above, autl lhin;;s below. 

llo also Uioui^lil. in fannlit's, 
If tlu\Y only did but. know. 

Or ooulil (lioso powers learn lo trace, — 

Thev would b(^ almost sure io (ind 

Owe or nuM-e who did possess 
Thai same j>eeidiar luiii of mind, 

liuliealiu!;" nuu'e ov less 

or mediuuiislie i|ualilit^s, 

'rhoui;li nude\(do|HMl, probably, 
And so unlit, for present usi> ; 

Hut. with <rood eari» thev soon would >;row, — 



nevelo]uui;" so «piiid\ly tiu>. 

At K>asl, thai was ihe i-ase with souu>. 
While others uiust u\ore time Ix'sIdw 

Bol'ore I heir usi>l'ulness be;;un. 



MIMliNI>l',i:Sl'(M)|>, 



1\) 



111 spciikiii!'; iliiiM of "swccl. Iiuiiic'" joyH, 

I Ic w islicil (n liu rcllcci ions ciisl. 
On lliosd who ^;'(»(. in (illicr wiiys 

VVIiiildVcr Hccincil lo (Ikiiii [n\M,: 

Nov would li(^ for {\\(\ world (Icikmiikui 

( iood nicdimiis of iuiy cIjiss, 
( )r on I heir d I '('(Is jiidi'inciil. |iidiioiiii('(i ; 

lie did, wil li ;ill, so iiiiicli ('\|ii'()SS 

( )!' (ciidcr lovr ;iiid sy iii|);il liy 

h\)v I li('S(^ pci'sccnlcd oiids : 
They W('i'(\ Im said, inosl. rciirl'iilly 

Sinned n<jfii.iiiHl- ; pclliiij^' vviMi sloiKiH 

Wcro l<'ss liiirsli IIkiii llic ridicule, 

( !olil('iiipl , iind scorn oil liiirlc(| ;ii llieiii ; 

'i'liey siirrci('<l more lli;ui lonjnie could Id! ; 
h\'\V Would li:i,ve lie:M'(. lo lliese coiideiiiii, — 

I )id I lie\ lull iindei'shiiid I he l;i\\ s 
VVIiieli ;4()veni luid eonlrol I he saiiio. 

It is :i. sill (() criisli iuid jiriiise ; 
Imii- I hey are hiiiiian, if lo Maine 



Soiiiel iiiies ; and who aiiioiiL;' yon is 
Wil lioiil. sin ? ir any such IIkmc he, 

Like ( )iie of old, IM say, il. is 
Ilis pri vil(5j4(! lo ea,sl< a. stone. 



180 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

These mediums are, in one sense, 
Of all the race most surely blest ; 

While, in another, worldly sense. 
They are, it seems, equally cursed. 

This language may seem rather strong : 
Nevertheless 'tis but the truth ; 

And ye who think me in the wrong 
Have no conception of the worth 

Of spirit-influence on such 

(I mean just now, none but the good) ; 
They surely are blest overmuch. 

Though painfully misunderstood. 

The same proclivities which draw 
Unto themselves spirit influence. 

Or render them susceptible unto 

The same, doth keej) them in suspense, — 

Lest surrounding influences (earthly ones), 
To which they are alike susceptible, 

Should preponderate, making them, 
For the time at least, incapable 

Of rendering spiritual truths ; 

Thus innocent ones are often blamed, 
Pronounced impostors, and so forth. 

When they themselves have truly aimed 



MISUNDEESTOOD. 181 

To do their best, and give alone 

The truth unto their fellow-men , 
I you would ask what wonder, then, 

So many from this work do turn ? 

Those who have not the moral courage 
To quite withstand the cruel taunts 

And jeers of those who would disparage. 
Much rather than the cause advance. 

Nor arc these laws well understood 

By many mediums themselves : 
If they were, they surely could 

Do much better by themselves. 

They should be very positive 

To influences which are bad ; 
In other words, should strive to live 

Apart from all except the good. 

For them it is as necessary 

To keep the inner fountain clear, 
And free from all that is contrary 

To the structures they would rear 

In this just and noble cause, 

As it is for " worldly Wisegood " 
To quite ignore all spirit laws ; 

The world and him are quite agreed. 

16 



1 82 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

I should be Sony to discourage 
By any thing I here hiive given, 

Or any medium disparage 

From giving out their precious leaven, 

And giving, too, to all who need it, 
11' they do have a full supply 

Of that dear gracious, lu)ly spirit 
Which same, alone can satisfy 

The earnest seeker for the truth. 

Nor sho\dd they Avillingly (Umiv 
To saint or sinner that which hath 

Been transmitted to them by 

One who is willing ami is able 
To instruct them how. to use it. 

And will reward them also double. 
Unless they foolishly refuse it. 

What has been said did more relate 
To mediums in their babyhood, 

IncapabU' to yet refute 

Tlie evil, and retaiu the good. 

When I did say for them to live 
" Apart from all except the good," 

I did not mean they should not give 
To an}^ other ; for I would 



MISUNDKItS'l'OOD. 183 

Tliat every one wlio ^valks this earth, 

From the lowest to the liighcst, 
Could receive this <^lorions truth, 

And by it be supremely bh\st. 

The meaning which I would convey 

Is that tli(\y must " stand for their rights " 

With mortals, and with spirits too, 
ir they do aim to be " lu\'ul lights " 

In this reformatory work. 

Be positive to all that's bad, 
'Lest you become yourself a wreck ; 

Be negative, receive the good. 

Kind angels then will bear you up. 

I once did hoar a medium say 
Unto a spirit who " owned nj) " 

That he was bad, but <;anie that way, — 

And would with her just lik(! a chat, 
" Sir, do you come with good intent? " 

(For she had heard an epithet, 

One which siie did at once resent.) 

" Would you get good from us below ? 

Or would you only do us harm ? 
If the former, we will bestow 

Our sympathy your soul to warm ; 



184 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

If tlu' latter, you must go : 

Wo have no room for such as you." 

The spirit then began to cry, 

Begging her hard to let him stay, — 

Promising fair he Avou.lil be good, 
And try to learn the '^ better \vay," 

•lust as fast as ever he could. 

'l\) him the medium then did say, — 

" Your inlluence for us is bad. 

But if you earnestly do try, 
And feel that ire can do more </ood 

To i/ot(, than i/ou can ck) Uf^ Itarni, — 

Yt)u are Aveleomc to remain, 

Anil as you say we'll have ' a ehat,' 

And strive to help you to regain 

That which you thoughtlessly have lost." 

I give this incident to show 

That it is needful we should test 

Those from above, and those below, 
And all their puv})oses defeat, 

If they intend to do us wrong, 

'Tis not for them or \is to say, 
" For thou art Aveak, and I am strong," 

But, if we have strength so to do, — 



MISHNDIOItSTOOl). 1 Hi' 

()v(U"(3()iii(! ///(■//• <v'/7 vv'Illi (iiir i/ood ; 

W not, to hiuvo tliciii \\)y w, H(i'()ii^(!r 
'I1i;iii oiirsclvoH to g'iv(! lJi(riii food, 

All ill kiiuliuiss, not ill nii'^'cM-. 

I would not li;iv(5 you Jitlrihiitfj 

All this wiiicii I liiivo ^■ivcii Ihm'C! 
'\\) Urol li(;r " ( 'oilier : ^ Ik; nii'dil, rcrulc*, 

And I l)(' ni;i,d(! (o then iippciir 

Less I rill hfiil IhiMi tlioS(! I dciioiiii(;(! ; 

(Y(;t not th(!iiiS(!]v(!H, tJKiir Jics I iiicfiii) 
lie gavo mc food for thought intciiHO ; 

From otherH alHo I did glean, — 

So that I Hcai'(!(! can toll jnysoU" 

Wliich came from liim, or wiiifdi IVoin who, 
I know there w> a seiiHitive gulf 

Which mediums must all pass (hrongli. 

'Hicir siinVriiigs iit hesL will Ito, 

At limes, intensely sliai'j) iuid keen. 

All suHer not in tin; same d(!gree, 
V\)V all ai'e iioL e(jiiii,lly fhie ; 

Some are, we know, l)y nature coarse, 
And these do siilTer much the less ; 

But all of me(Jiumistic iJtn'ce, 
Do by this v(;ry H(!nsitiveneHH, — 



18G MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Wliicili is the chief component part 

Of mediumship, suffer from 
A contact with another sort 

Who do in oppositioii come ; 

Although they ma}^ not it express 
In words, perhaps, 'tis all the same, 

For it is felt ; and none can guess 

The pain it gives, who have not known, — 

To some extent, the subtle power 

It doth exert, just by a look, 
AVhich look doth oft express much more 

Thau words could do by " hook or crook." 

For, whatever the eyes do tell. 

We know is true ; for are they not 

The " index of the heart " as well ? 
So, if the heart witliin be right, — 

The eyes will tell no wicked lies, 
But only beam with love and light ; 

The soul will also you surprise. 
And fill with rapturous delight, — 

r>y taking now and then a peep 

Through the fringed ciutain of 
Those lustrous eyes so clear and deep, 

lleminding of those orbs above, — 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 187 

Who their nightly watch do keep, 

But hide themselves whene'er the snn 

Its glaring vays on tliem would cast: 
And so tlie soul will homeward run, — 

If you but chance to overstep 

The bounds of courtesy and love ; 

And you will then most likely reap 
Something akin to cool reserve. 

A few more words I wish to say 

To those who take an interest 
In our mediums, and may 

Perchance, themselves, be on our list. 

I have endeavored here to give 

A truthful statement of their ease, 

Just as I did myself receive 

And from, I flunk, a truthful source. 

But I have kept until the last 

'J'hat whicii I think will please you most; 
Please most because it is the best, 

As you will all agree, I trust. 

That they do suffer much and keenly, 

I have, I think, made very plain. 
I wish you now to know they truly 

Do also find enjoyment keen, — 



188 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

If tliey do only persevere, 

And strive to live and learn aright ; 
Giving only what doth appear 

Truthful and honest in tlieir sight : 

Keeping themselves so pure and true, 
They will attract only the good 

From above or from below. 

If this were done, I tliink they would 

Soon acknowledge that they were 
Of all earth's ones most truly blest. 

Governed by a higher power. 
At their loving ones' behest ; 

While living in an atmosphere 

Midway between the earth and heaven, 
And feeling that a treasure rare 

Had unto them been kindly given. 

And as they see, from day to day. 
The pure transfusing work go on 

Within their souls, barren and dry 
But just a little time agone, — 

Methinks they will, with one consent, 
Unite to bless the glorious Giver. 

Nor will their hearts be quite content. 
Until they safely have passed over 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 189 

The quicksands of their early youth; 

While self-reliant now, and brave, 
They will launch most boldly forth, 

Nor ever fear the " coming wave." 

No storms can stay their progress now. 

Or turn them from their heavenward course. 

They have, like Moses, had a view 
Of the promised land, from whence 

They will look back in future years. 
And bless the da}^ when they became. 

By their efforts and their prayers. 
Worthy of the charming name 

Of God's elect ; for thoy have grown 

So far beyond the earthly sphere, 
They recognize not as their own, 

The sorrow and corroding care 

Which fetters still the souls of those 

Who have not courage to break through ; 

Hoping rather, sweet repose 

Will come to them, instead of their 

Having to search for it elsewhere. 

Not that the first do fail to soothe 
And comfort these, and also share 

Their joys and sorrows, and forthwith 



100 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Awaken in their hearts desires 
For nobler purposes and aims ; 

Teaching to live as God requires, 
In sj)ite of all tempestuous stoims. 

They do by their example prove 

God is their refuge and their strength ; 

For he hath taught them how to live 
Within the world, but not of it. 



I doubt not that many of you 

Are weary of the very name 
Of medium, and wish that I 

Would drop the subject, and resume 

The narrative I had begun. 

'Tis meet that I should sometimes go 
Outside the limits of your sun ; 

Else I could never half portray 

The life and character of her 
"Who seems almost an angel now. 

Her thoughts are all so fresh and pure, 
They must from some clear fountain flow. 

Her intuitions grew more keen, 
Or rather she became, ere long. 

Impressible, and her unseen 

And loving guides then had " full swing." 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 191 

Many instances tlicy gave her 

Of their power to her impress ; 
Making them so plain and clear, 
'She did most willingly confess 

There was a power outside herself, 

Directing her, according to 
Her l)est knowledge and belief. 

Of tliis slie seemed (piite sure to be ; 

Although she many times did find 

Their ways were not like to hor ways ; 

Nor did their thoughts (juito correspond. 
This did make some doubts arise ; 

But they fpiickly diHaj)poared, 

For she found she could not long 
Think her thoughts. They had the licld ; 

She was weak, and they were strong. 

So she most cheerfully did yield, 
Happy indeed to have the chance. 

Her soul was with their wisdom fdled. 
Which made her rapidly advance. 

One instance only I shall give. 

To here illustrate what I say, — 
How she most surely did receive 

In that most satisfying way. 



102 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

( )nc.(^ upon ;i. (Iiiui (Ii(!i'(i ciiiiu) 

A iJuilliiig m(!SS{igg from her liome. 

I sli()u](l not licro of course presume, 
Even could I spare ilio time, — 

To give it you : its import was 

Siic.rod to her, iind her alone. 
AloiK^ I say : I mean so far 

As it did a r(!])ly concern. 

It did a,wa,k(! witliiii licr heart 

A fount of gi-icvf and aiit^uish wihl. 

Slio ahiiost longed to dc])art, 

And dwell witli llim, the nndc(il(Ml, — 

Escaping all this world of Avoe. 

These thoughts she did not Iiarhor long, 
For they were sellish ones, she knew ; 

She must be l)old and brave and strong. 

l^'oi- oduvrs needed sympathy 

Such as she alone could give; 
Niiilhcr could she but ])artially, 

IJecausci they could not it r(!ceive. 

Tlia,t Ycry day slu^ di<l attend 
A "spirit-circle," and of (M)urso 

lleceived a mcssiigi; from her fricmd ; 

The import of whicli was simply this : — 



MIHUNDlOI.'.srooi). I'.);} 

Come Ijcrc l()-iii()i I'ow iiioriiiii'^', |)l(!!is(!, 

y\ii(l I will j^ivc you my ii,(lvi('(!. 
'J'lu! circJcj was ul. tlwil- saiiK! placo 

Wlioro kIk! ko ()r(,(!ii (lid ciiiliract; 

TIk! opjjurliiiiily kIk; ])riz<;(l, 

Of lic^ldiii^ KW(M',I, coiniiiiiiiioii wiLli 

llcr (nvii (l(!iir IVii^iids and sjiiiil j^iiidcs, 

Whom sIk! well knew wcro nol, a, "■niytli." 

Now wli(;ii she did. j'<;Liiiii iJiai ni.'.dd, 

Slioiolt; so woaiy aiid I'oiloiii, 
She ato no sii|)])C',r, liad no li;4h(,, 

But shut h(3rs(;ir up aJi aJom;, — 

And loosed ih(i i'ouiituin ol" her grici;'; 

Thinking this t,lie sur(!st way 
or hi'ingirig to her liea,rl i(;li(;r, 

Km she niusi ^iv*; her sad reply. 

For sad she knew '(Avoidd he to them, 
B(!c;auHO tlj(;y eould. not linrieistand. 

TJie why or wliorei'ore, and vv(;uld hlamcj 
Without a cauKO. To countermand 

TJieir i'ecdings at the present time, 

Would be (entirely out ol" place; 
Nor, ijideed, c(juld it be done 

Without seeming; HUspiciousncsH, — 



104 MISUNDEUSTOOD. 

Wliicli she must shave until tlio liiiic 

When crooked ways should he made straight. 

Alter a Avhilo she grew more cahn, 
And prepared herself for night ; 

Though searco expecting sleep would come, 
Wliieh it did not till morning light. 

Instead of sleep, kind angels came ; 

And, Avith theii' counsel golden hri;;ht, — 

Did soothe her gently, while they said, — 
"Time will bring these; things all right. 

If you will patiently ahide. 
Sorrow cndureth hut a night ; 

And in the morning eonu'th joy." 

Now, she had thought the night before, 

It would bo such a comfort to 

Receive advice from her dear pastor 

In this her trying hour of need I 

She had a realizing sense 
Of what it should be ; but indeed 

She know not how to it commence, — 

Or how the sentences to frame. 

But as she lay then', w icki awake, 
As by some magic power it came. 

The answer true, and no mistake. 



T\iisiiM)i';i;s'i'()(»i>. \\)l 

Tlu! S(Ml(('ll(!(,'.S WrVC <Illly IVilllKMl, 

And ;ill so kindly, ((to, (ixprcssed, 
Slio i\)]t sliu sciircjiily could l)o bhuiicd ; 
And joy onco mor<i did (ill Ikm- bi-csiisL 

Now, ill ili(! inornlni;', hIio propurcd 

To fulfill liov ^iiid(!'s i'(M|ii(!Ht, 
liocaiiHo slio icU a kind i-tij^ai'd 

Vov liitn who liad ho oI'Umi bUisscd 

Iltii' with liis coiinsiil and advice; 

Thon^li al, tin; ])r(!S(!n(, time. i(, scHMiicd 
Almost loolisli and nnwisc 

Fov li(!r to ^o, sinco tlxii-o j-ciniaiiu^d, — 

It socined to lioi', iiotliinL;' rni-tlMii- 
To be said, all was inado so [)lain. 

She had confided to one otlior 

The cause of lior sad ^ricif ;ind jtaiti. 

So just I)eror(; sIk; left, that morn, 

She sought her out, and thus did say : — 

" I'm going now ; on my return 
I'll tell you all which comes to nu;. 

But, if it only doth concern 

My own rej)ly, 'tis useless (jiiite 
For inc to go ; still I may learn 

Something impoitiint y(!t, despite 



196 MISTJNDERSTOOD. 

The feeling, Avliich will force itself 
Upon my mind, that that is all 

My errand there." To her relief 
The friend did ask her how so y\Q\l 

She kncAv what answer then to give, 

Since 'twas only yesternight 
She had said she all must leave 

Unto her guide ; she could not write, - 

Nor even think what should be said. 

She told her friend how it had come 
While she was lying on her bed. 

And also gave, in its due form, — 

The answer which she thought to write, 

Immediately on her return. 
She sallied forth, the rain despite, 

And found the medium alone. 

Said not a word that there had been 

Any spirit message given, 
Or that she did expect to learn 

Any thing new ; she not even 

Asking at once for a " sitting." 
Conversing pleasantly a while. 

The "sitting" came without I lie asking ; 
For the medium, m('an\vliih\ — 



Mrs UNDERSTOOD. 197 

Did all unconsciously (j^uite lose 

Ilcr individuality. 
The reason, as you may suppose, 

Was that a personality 

Stepped in, and took lier place betimes. 

Of course she knows no wf)id tliat coi.'k^s. 
Or even that another presumes 

To tlnis control her organism. 

It was indeed the pastor guide 

Who took possession, and did giv^e 

/Whate'er he chose to then confide, 

Without once saying, " IJy your leave." 

He gave almost the self-same words 
Our friend received the night before : 

Then told her, with his kind regards, 
'Twas him who had impressed Jic]-, — 

And, as she knew, who now controlled, 
lie wished her to her tlioiights compore 

With what she had just now received. 
And tell him if they really were 

Just precisely all the same. 

It seemed to him he could quite well 
Now control her mind and brain ; 

But she herself could better tell. 

17* 



1 08 MISUNDET5 STOOD. 

Alitl for (li;i( jmrposc lu< liad (litnl 
To L;ivc tlu> saino iu those two ways ; 

That she might be tiuitc satisfied, 
ITo could control as he did |)leaso. 

llc^ also said, the surest Avay 

0\' getting things eidirely i>ure 

AVas by inij^ression ; and that (hey 

Should this AViiy give them unto her, — 

Whenever they eould mnkv it [ilain. 

It was almost imjnissible 
To give her, through anotlier brain. 

That one, of eoursc\ suscejUible 

To inlbience, ivltliougli nneonsrions. 

Without liaving it inirtahe 
Som(>'\\'lnit oL" the (lualilies 

Oi' the medium at stake. 

ITer lesson now she felt was learned. 

Ivight glad was she, yon may be sure, 
That she had not nnwisely (nnicd 

I*'roni M'hal. had now btH'ii gJNcn \\cv. 

r>tH'ause it did her heart eneourago 
To on herself nuicli moi-e rely. 

It was indeed a, ])riviK>g(\ 

To feel herseU' thus guided by 



MlSllNI>KI!H'i'()Or). 



1»!) 



TlioHO iui<;'(il visiliiiils, :iml know 

'I'luiy (M)iil(l li'iuisiiiil. mild licr l»r:iiii 

Tlicir wiser kiiowlcd^;!', imr licsldw 

Their own r;ir-re;icliinn' llion;;li(s in Viiin. 

r.\ lliis, my IVieiids, yoiTII donM less H(!0 
Tlini spii'ils do eonli-ol ;i.l, will. 

As in this insLiiiie(!, liiey iilso 

(!()Miriv(! (Iieir mission to fnlfill, — 

Som(!(,im(!S, wiilioiit Mie Jibei'l-y 
Ol" l,li(! insirnnu^nl- 1lii'on!_;ii wliieli 

Tlioy ^ivc! lii(! siune. 'I'lieir ;dMli(,y 
Im)I- iJiis dependel li nol, so mneli 

Upon MiemHolvoH, iis (Ji<! (|nidil,y 

(){ lliese s;uiie ones Iliey do conrrol ; 

II, mij^iiL be vv(!ll jnsl* liei'c; to sii,y, 
'riuiy work ;iva:()V(\\i\>^ to tluj Hoil. 

SoMK! m(;dinms rcjCusci to yield 

( I'(n-Iiii,|)S tliey eiui not: I don't Siiy^ 

To llie inllnenee wliieli would 
('oiitrol tliem in ii, j^cudh; vv;i.y : 



So, it I'liey iiro eontrolled iit iill, 

Jt must l)(! (lotKj ii,}4'iunst I heir will : 

And I»y the; oti(!S who (h) (;onlrol 

l>endin'r to " their own swe(;t will." 



200 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

One instance I will here relate, 

Wliicli came within mj^ observation : 

'Twas at a conference select, 

Where many spoke Ijy inspiration. 

During a pause, a rustling sound 

Near by attracted me to look ; 
And, as I did just glance around, 

I saw a lady leaning back, — 

While at the time she thus did say, — 
" Please take me out : I am so sick ! '' 

The friend beside her did reply, — 

" The spirits wish that you should speak.*' 

The fiend had seen her thus before. 
And understood the case right well. 

Knowing the spirits would restore 
If she their wishes would fulfill. 

She clasped her hands in agony. 

" Oh, no, I can not ! I shall die." 
And then she seemed to swoon away. 

Just then I caught her friend's mild eye, - 

As she did gently raise her up. 

Ah ! that face did seem transformed : 
A brilliant smile did light it up. 

She then arose, and tui-ncd around, — 



MTSUNDETISTOOD. 201 

Just pausing to take off her hat, 

And llion, as if a princess born, 
Sped she so bohlly to the front, 

Ascending there tlio Ioav platform. 

Tlion for a moment fixed lier eyes 

Upon the breathless audience. 
Who gazed at her in some surprise. 

Tliis was her first experience 

In speaking in a public place. 

Then she did make a graceful bow, 
Boldly commenced a fine discourse. 

Which same was kindly listened to 

By all who were advanced enough 

To appreciate all its wortli. 
Her voice was neither coarse nor rough ; 

Yet, as the measured tones poured fortli, — 

They seemed like to some orator. 

The language used was scholarly; 
Showing whoever did control her 

Was educated, and that finely. 

Both words and maimer did bespeak 
A highly-cultured mind and lieart. 

S(mie sentences slie gave in Greek, 
Thus showing this had been a part 



202 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Of the education which 

The controlling' sjiivit had been 

Pcri'ected in, and Avhich also 

He could give forth, himself unseen. 

He occupied but little time, 

Though what ho said was to the point. 
Indeed, it seemed almost sublime ; 

As if an angel had been sent 

To harmonize the minds of earth 
(As, indeed, I think the spirit had). 

He did apologize at length 

For having been, or seemed, unkind 

In forcing her Avho now did sjieak ; 

And that so much against her will. 
'Twas him, he said, who made her sick. 

Had he not done so, she would still 

Have been just sitting quietly, 

Listening to what others might say. 

He knew ho had distressed her greatly, 
But 'twas for her good, as she would see, 

It would have Ixhmi im])0ssible 
To have persuaded her to this. 

The only way for him to rule 
Was to take her thus by force. 



MisuNrnnts'i'noi). 203 

If OIK! Ii:mI moiic, iiiii.o licr liollHO, 

And |»i'<»iiiis('(l her "• I li(iiisiiii(ls " ill ^'()l(l 

To coiiiti iiiid spciik ill UiiiL SiiiiK! |)l:ic,(!, 
SIk! would liavo siiid hIi(3 iievcu' (^oiild. 

SIk! did ])oss(!SH IK) ciirlJily sloro 

or vvcidlJi oi' wisdom : yd/ sIk; IkmI 

A iiHidiuinistiu ^ilX inosl, liiic, 

Wliidi kIioiiM I)(; used lor ollicirs' good. 

And, iis for Ik^t cdiiciilioii, il, 

Was v(!ry lijiiiLcd iiid(!(id. 
SIk! liiid no j)oW(jr of clocutioji; 

And, wli(!U bIu) suid "hIio ncv(!r could," — 

Slio Hj)ok(! l)uL (jiiLli ; j'oi- ol' licrsoll." 

Jt would Jiavc hiiCAi iinpossiblo. 
Tlio blame or urodiL iio liiiiiHclf 

Must take, and Ix) i(!Sj)onsil)lo 

For iiJI wliicli IiimI IJii-oii;^Ii Ikt hccn giv(!ii. 

Ifo IiojxmJ (!!•() long to couKi iij^iiiii ; 
Again control Ik^' oiganism, 

Ajid tiiat witlioiit giving bucIi pain. 

This, he said, was only one 

Of the iriauy iiiHtancoH 
In which tlio weak ones did hecomo 

Instruments for heavenly graces 



204 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

To be poured forth upon mankind ; - 
Confounding thus the strong and mighty 

(Who search in vain the truth to find) 
By their sweet simplicity. 

lie bowed again most graciously, 
Conducted her back to her seat, 

Which she had left unconsciously. 
She found herself without a hat ; 

Supposed of course 'twas taken off 
When she had felt so very sick. 

And was indeed surprised enough 
To learn about the spuit's trick. 

The friend who sat beside her was 

One whom I had often met, 
And in whose word I siu'c coidd place 

The utmost confidence and trust. 

She did confirm what had been said 

About her friend the medium, 
By the spirit who her controlled. 

She thought the language was sublime, — 

And knew 'twas very far beyond 

Her friend's capacity to give. 
Or, she thought, to comprehend. 

Had she been able to receive. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 205 

This has been given you to show 

Just one phase of mediumship. 
As, when our. Saviour dwelt below, 

There were " diversities of gifts," — 

" Diversities of operations," 

So even at the present time 
Are diverse manifestations, 

But just the same spirit sublime 

Given to man to profit withal. 

And to work out the self-same truth ; 

The same God " worketh all in all ; " 
And the same spirit prevaileth. 

We are admonished by St. Paul, 

To " covet earnestly the best gifts; " 

Again he saith to one and all, 
"And desire spiritual gifts." 

If prayer doth all the others bring. 

And yet leaves out sweet charity, 
We say with him, " I am nothing," 

Because I have not charity. 

Although our valued friend became 

Impressible, as we have seen, 
She, as before, from time to time 

Held converse with the medium, — 



206 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Just in licr old accustoinocl way. 

It gave enjoyment far too keen 
To 1)0 transmitted in a day. 

She also did fresh lessons o-lcan, — 

And felt herself renewed by grace, 
Regretting not the time slie spent. 

It seemed like talking i'xivc tt) face 

With one who eonld so well give forth 

New forms of trulli, and also base 
The same upon fixed principles, 

Suiting the action to the case, 
Eidarging the receptacles 

Of her understanding, and 

Furnishing to her, as well, 
The precious seed these did demand. 

To make them yield fruit plciilirul. 

He once endeavored to explain 
Somewhat of the mystic power 

Of the laws of magnetism. 

Which ever stand firm and seciu'e 

Although so little understood 

By us below, or j'ct, indeed. 
By the thronging midtitude 

Now passed unto the "other side." 



MiauNDici; STOOD. 207 

IIo gave an cxphuiatkui of 

What with us is termed " deal 1 1 ; " 

Although the naino he chose to give 
Was, "hirtli inito the spirit-lifo." 

Which same was an established faith, 
Confinnod hy all wlio had ])assed from 

Their clay(!y teiuMueut of (!a]ili, 

Whose spirits now were free! to roam. 

All, lie saitl, had spirit-friends, 

Who kept o'er them a walcliful gnu id ; 

Assisting them in all tlu^ir needs. 

If by these friends tJiey were allowed. 

(I now do speak of "spiritual tilings," 
Which must, of course, be so discerned.) 

As in this life, our conduct brings 

Unto us friends clKiste and refined, — 

Or the reverse, according to 

Our own impulses and desires, 
Just so it is wiili s])irits too ; 

They are just wiiiit our life; rcMpiires. 

(Our "guardian spirits," I do uiciui.) 

]f they are not the v(!ry Ixist, 
'Tis no one's fault but jusl our own ; 

And shows our liie, to say the least, — 



208 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Has been perverted, so that now 
'Tis hard to break away from them : 

Nor can we, either, nnless we do 

" Deny ourselves," " take up our cross," 

And " follow after righteousness," 

Attracting only spirits pure ; 
And by our own unselfishness 

ISIaking it most doubly sure 

No others will attempt to come, 
Or to our hearts and souls inspire. 

This will, we know, seem strange to some 
Who have not yet learned to acquire 

What they do long so to possess, 

By their oum effort or desire ; 
Thinking 'twill trouble them the less 

Whatc'cr they want, to get Iry hire. 

We pity them : they yet must learn 
That no good thing they can possess. 

Until they do it duly earn. 

The loving smile and soft caress 

Require, alike, a kind return ; 

Else they become cold and heartless, 
Showing they're only just "put on." 

Alas ! they leave you comfortless. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 209 

Again: I would conipai'c i-lioso same 

Unto a laniily 1 laiow. 
(Do not tliinlv I ilioiu would bhiiuo ; 

I only wish they bettor knew.) 

Their hearts were kind, and full of love ; 

And yet they were not over-wise, 
Nor coukl I all their ways a.jiprove. 

(I speak now ol" ilu; ])itr('nts' ways.) 

They were not ri(;h in tliis world's goods, 
As some eouiit I'iehcs, — by their (jold : 

Yet idl the comrorti? life aiTords, 
And also luxuries untold, — 

Did seem to come within their reach. 

Much hard labor they had done, 
Indeed, did still ; yet tailed to teach 

The importance of the same 

Unto their children, now quite Large : 
Much sooner do it all themselves. 

These would, of" course, some time engage 
In a, pursuit to liclj) IlKiUisclvcss ; 

But "let them now enjoy iheir youtli. 

They only liav(! orn; life to live : 
Trouble will come (juite soon enough. 

Then let them now no cross receive." 

18* 



210 MISTJNDEESTOOD. 

"Truly the liglit is sweet: 'tis pleasant to 
behold the sun ; 

But, if a man live many years, 
Let him remember the clays of darkness, 

For they shall be many." 

Again : " Rejoice, O young man, in thy youth. 
And walk in the ways of thine heart ; 

But know thou that for all these things 
God will bring thee into judgment," 

I make no comment on these words : 
Indeed, they do explain themselves ; 

And hundreds more His Word affords. 
Which might be multiplied by tAvelves, — 

Teaching us that whatever we 

Expect to be, or do, on earth, 
We should not willingly delay. 

But should commence the same in youth. 

Now this same family did have 

A garden, which did yield much fruit. 

The strawberries were fine and large. 
Just in their prime, so nice and sweet : 

The children all, both great and small, 
Thought them delicious, and could scai-ce 

Be satisfied with them at all. 

Up came their dishes, once, twice, thrice, — 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 211 

" If you please, mamma, Yd like 

More strawberries, they arc so nice." 

It might be well just here to make 
A few remarks, and show the case. 

They kept a servant, — onli/ one : 

Of course she could not find the time 

To pick the berries, and her own 
Daily duties also perform. 

What then is done ? Oh, that's all right ! 

The children to their pleasures go. 
Choosing some cool and shady spot ; 

No thought of care upon their brow ; 

Gay and happy, unless, perchance, 
They have to mind the " little ones," 

Which duty tends not to enhance 

Their pleasures much, if by their tones 

We are to judge ; for, lo ! theu^ voice 
Is neither birdlike nor very sweet ; 

They wish the " young ones somewhere else, ■^— 
Always getting under foot." 

Unto the garden mamma goes : 

The sun is pouring down so hot ! 
But, oh ! she sees such quantities 

Of berries ripe, she minds it not ; 



212 MISUNDERRTOOD. 

And, though it takes her three long hours, 
Slie gathers all which now arc fit. 

The scorching sun still hotter pours 
Upon her back, which now is wet 

With perspiration I and she feels 
So tired and weary I it will take 

Just all her time till dinner calls 
To liull them, and herself to make 

Look neat and tidy for the meal. 

Slie lias used up the whole forenoon ; 
But, never mind, licr darlings all 

Do so enjoy the l)erries fine. 

" We'll have them for dessert to-day, 
It will be such a glorious feast ; 

There'll be enougli left then for tea. 
They ripen now so very fast, — 

I think they must be picked again 

]>y to-morrow, if the sun 
So brightly as to-day doth sliine ; 

But really I am overrun 

With all the things I have to do. 
And surely can not s[)end tlie time 

For that ; beside, I want to go 

And make some calls in the afternoon. 



]\1IHnNI)KI(M'l"<KM). 



lilH 



IN'iliiips (or ()iic,(! Mi(! cIiiMi'dii will 

Pick LIhj l)(!iri(!S ; I will H(!(i." 
So ill (li(! iiioriiiii^' sli<! (Iocs l.<:ll 

'^rii(! cliildicii how i\u' cMiM', (lolli lie, 

And iiHk lliciii if l/li(!y'(l ho Ko l;iiid 
As to piok ilioin jiml, tliiw oikjo. 

])o iiH iJKjy ])l(;aH(:(i, kIic did iiol. iiiiiid ; 
Only sli(! iiioiij^lil- Mioy inij^hl, (hoiri riiinH. 

"T can iiol," lh(! son r(!j)lioH ; 

" l*\)r aClor dinner W(! pliiy hid I : 
'JMial/H work ononoji for (Iicmo hol> diiyH ; 

And HO iJiis in<iiniii^'; ril \:(;c\i cool." 

" Well, my d;ui;4l]l(;is, ;i,nd wIkiI- i-;i,y you ? ' 
"() mamma, dcMvl I wani, (,o t/n 

And Koo Jano Sha,w : kIio HKkcd mc l,o, 
Don't you know? homk; lime a^o." 

" W(;]l, if' yoii do, I hha'n'l, Hiny 

Picking h(!rri(jH all alono; 
No, 1 iliaiik you, nf^l/ for mr; ; 

j-'or I c;u)'l, f|uiU; Kf;o ilio fun." 



Alan! oi' ;dl Uio;:(; children Ihrcc, 

Who Ihoii^dd, fliC hcrricH wore " ko nice,' 

Kot one was willin?^, an you nee, 
Their lielp to lend in any wiKe. 



214 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Now you may ask which was to blame, — 
The mother or the (un) grateful son, 

The parent, or the daughters fine ? 
(Any way, it is a shame ! 

No berries will they have for tea.) 

(" Mamma) I fear they'll think me awful 
mean : 
I "wish I hadn't got to go, (to child). 

In truth, I'd rather stay at home." 

We think you know our mind so well. 
We leave it now to your good sense, 

If such a thing doth in you dwell ; 
If not, pick berries through the fence. 

Until your vision grows more clear ; 

The clouds are now so thick and dense. 
They do your reason quite obscure. 

Although the berries are immense. 

Alas ! tJiei/ too do soon become 

But an acknowledged nuisance. 
Taking all your precious time, — 

You shall be glad when they " go hence." 

Now, this I gave to illustrate 

The life and character of those 
Who do prefer to live " in state," 

And only just themselves to please. 



MISUNDEESTOOD. 215 

The case is not just quite the same ; 

For in the last we know for sure 
Precisely where to fix the blame, 

Precisely who the same must bear. 

What saith the prophet Ezekiel 

About the ' watchman ' being set 
Unto the house of Israel, 

For to sound aloud the trumpet ? 

When he foresaw danger ahead, 

If he did this, and warned them all. 

Although the people disobeyed, 
He should deliver his own soul. 

But if the watchman failed to fulfill 
The Lord's command, and give alarm, 

The people died, of course ; but still 
He alone must bear the blame. 

Now, the watchmen all are here, — 

Not all, perhaps, in human form. 
And surely not by human power, 

Any more than at that time ; 

But if they do their part perform, 

And we, meanwhile, are out of reach, 

Hearing not the trumpet blown. 

We must infer what this doth teach. 



216 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

And if a person will not heed, 

Or turn him from his Avieked ways, 

" His blood shall be upon his head," 
Nor shall his soul find a release. 

In this enlightened age we laiow 

The fount of wisdom grows more clear ; 

And all who will may to it go. 
Trusting in all its words so pure. 

"Whatever blessings we would claim. 
Whatever treasures make our own, 

INIust strive to wisely earn the same ; 
For thus did He, God's only Son. 

I do not say all must be earned 

Just in the self-same way and form, 

'Tis evident unto our mind 

" Each has a mission to perform." 

One, it may be, by his brain. 

Another by " sweat of the brow: " 

All have passions to restrain, 
Though many hesitate to try ; 

Thinldng alas ! 'twill be less hard 
If they do wait till "■ by and by," 

Forgetting that our every deed 
Will bear its fruit, and we shall be 



MrSUNDKliSTOOD. 217 

Judged according lo (Ik^ Siuu(\ 

If good the IViiil, also tlio troo ; 
If tlic i-cverso, Avlicn; rests the bliiinc ? 

Could wc but bear in mind cacdi day 

That '■'• TAitlc deeds of Ichidiiess, 
Little words of love, 
Make our earth an P^den 
Like tlie heavcMi al)ove," — 

Should we not striven to be; n)oi-e kind, 
And live as Christian brothers slioidd ? 

No tie except of love to bind 
Our hearts in unison for good. 

Perhaps you think that I do leave 

My subject matter quite too oft ; 
I beg your pardon, yet perceive 

My thoughts can not ))ut soar aloft. 

'Tis " by the grace of God," I know ; 
His blessed angels tell me so : 
Where'er I go, whate'cr I do, 
I trust they'll safely guide me through, — 

And welcome to that peaceful homo 
Where there is no shade of guile ; 

Yes, in that bright and " golden sometime," 
I feel I scarce can wait the while. 

19 



218 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

But my subject to resume, 

As doth regard the " spirit birth," 

He said that spirits from their home. 
Did behold their friends on eai'th ; 

And did anticipate their birth 

To spirit life, just exactly 
As did parents upon the earth 

Look forward Avith anxiety 

Unto the time they should bring forth ; 

They made their preparations too ; 
To them assist at time of birth, 

Just as much as parents here do, — 

When an infant child is born. 

There also was a cord wliich bound 
The spirit to the earthly frame. 

Like unto what was always foimd 

Connecting mothers and their babes. 

The body passed through suffering. 
But the spirit he thus describes 

When it is the body leaving, — 

" As in childbirth, first the head 

Should be brought forth, so the spirit 

Should be drawn, and through the head : 
It is magnetism which does it. 



MlSlJNDKTlSTnf)n. 219 

You luivo (l()ul)tl(!ss ohservod the Icct 
Do first j4ro\v cold, and this is why : — 

The spirit lias coiiitricuced its exit, 
Is being dravvn IVoiii low to liigh. 

Its progress oft is iniicli impcdccj 

By friends nnwilling to it resign, 
And, were these laws inon; known and hecidod, 

'Two u hi save mueli suirering and pain. 

One truth 1 wouhl eonnnunieate 

WJjieii should he known to all 'mankind ; 

When one lies in a dying state. 

Friends in tho foiin, wlio gather ronnd, — 

Should center aJj(jve (jr near tlie kcad^ 

And by their magnetism assist 
The spirit in its time of need: 

Far better this, than to resist, — 

And the death-agony i)rolong ; 

Detaining by their selfish might 
The spirit, which can not stay long, 

]Jut soon will 1,ak(; its upward fiiglit, — 

]ioiiie by sjjirits near a/id dear, 

Who will attend unto its needs, 
Dissipating every fear. 

Conducting to their owji abodes, — 



220 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Where all is love, and light and joy ; 

And here it shall no good thing lack, 
But rest in peace till able to 

Commence its own predestined work. 

(Excuse me if I say right here, 

It also is important that 
When earthly child-birth hour is near, 
Friends should assemble at the foot^ — 

Just the reverse of spirit-birth : 
I tell you true, this is no whim ; 

For magnetism helps to bring forth. 
And much alleviates the pain.) 

I would not wish you to infer 

That all have friends equally dear, 

Awaiting on the other shore ; 
For, as on earth many appear 

Quite solitary and alone. 

Those who could win no friends on earth 
Could scarce expect to find right soon 

Congenial friends, or those whose worth 

They could appreciate all at once ; 

Their natures must expand and grow 
Ere they can learn, by power of sense. 

To embrace the joys they did forego ; 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 221 

The ones who realize most luHy 

The joys which do await tlicju there 

Are those who here did hjve most truly, 
And their loved ones " W(!ut before ; " 

While they are now only waiting 

For the sliadows to grow longer; 
I siiy me nay: th(!y too are working, 

And each (hiy ai'o growing stronger. 

Showing hy tlieir sweet submission, 
And their kindly thought I'or others, 

Their grief hath opened up the fountain 
Whence do How the " living waters ; " 

And in tlKjir hearts they bless the Lord 
For all his mercy and his goodness ; 

Through all their lives they'll praise tlie Lord, 
In times of health, in times of sickness ; 

Knowing that their aspirations 

After truth and righteousness 
Will help them to perform tlieir missions 

With a spirit full of kindness. 

Many, I thiidc, do keep aloof 

From that which doth at all pertain 

To Spiritism, nor wish a proof 
Convincing it is aught but sin 

19* 



222 I^IISUNDERSTOOD. 

To give tho sub)oi.'l duo ivganl : 
Because that many ^vho do possess 

(Anil hlo\v tlioiv tvunipet very loud) 
A knowledge ol" these mysteries 

Do oft berate the '' Christian Church 

With all its damning heresies," 
And say its doctrines do but teach 

A Avelln'oneoeted string of lies, — 

Without reason or common-sense ; 

And seem to think nought can be done 
By spirit power or influence, 

Until the "•Church" comes tumbling down. 

I feel to say they would rejoice 

At such a sad catastn^phe, 
And sound ahnid with clarion voice, — 

" We have gained the yietory," 

" Now, I beseech you, brethren, 

Mark them which cause divisions and offenses 

Contrary to the doctrine 

Which ye have learned ; and avoid them." 

1 think that those who woukl demolish 
Our churches quite, and lay them low, 

Should firstly learn, and then abolish, 
Tlie heinous errors they forego ; 



MISUNDEIlH'IOOn. 223 

Those wIjo would iukc oiu' (I(;(;lrJii(;.s Iroiii uh, 
And lead ii.s forth in pustiireB Btrange, 

We Avoiild kindly ask to tell us 

What tlifjy ean give us in exehange, — 

Ajid how our souls are to be i'ed? 

Is it with the heavenly manna ? 
Or will they give us husks instead? 

Saying, indeed, we have not any. 

St. Peter saith, " The prophecy 

Came not in old time by the will of men ; 

But holy men of God spake 

As they were moved \)y the Holy Ghost. 

But there were false prophets also among the 

peophi. 
Even as there shall be J'ulm teachers amomj you^ 
Who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, 
IHven denyinrj the Lord that bought them. 

Anrl many sliall follow 

Their pernicious ways, 

By reason of whom the way of truth 

Sliall he evil spoken of.'''' 

" 'i'iiey allure through the lusts of the flesh. 
And despise government : jnesumptuous are they, 
Self-willed : they are not afraid 
To speak evil of dignitaries." 



224 MISUNDEESTOOD. 

" These are wells without water, 

Clouds that are carried with a tempest." 

" Whereas augels, which are greater in power 

and might, 
Bring not railing accusation against them." 

" I write not these things to shame }' on. 
But as my beloved sons I warn you." 
" What will ye ? shall I come unto you with a rod. 
Or ill love, and in the spirit of meeliuess ? " 

" Brethren, I beseech you, be as I am : 
For I am as ye are : ye have not injured me at all." 
" I have confidence in you through the Lord, 
That ye will be none otherwise minded : " 

" For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty, 
Only use not liberty for an occasion to the jlesli ; " 
" But take heed lest by any means this liberty 

of yours 
Become a stumbling-block to them that are weak." 

Much rather, my brethren, say with St. Paul, 
"But I have used none of these things." 
" Stand fast, therefore, in the liberty 
Wherewith Christ hath made us free." 

" But, if ye bite and devour one another. 
Take heed that ye be not consumed one of another. 
This I say, then : walk in the spirit. 
And ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh." 



MISUNDEESTOOD. 225 



These criticisms may seem severe, 
Nevertheless I think them true ; 

And all which has been given here 
Has been given with a view 



To eradicate the errors 

By establishing the truth ; 
And thus I say to earnest seekers, — 

Fear thou not. Go boldly forth 

Fortify thy self-reliance ; 

Know first thyself^ then learn the truth . 
There is a pitiable ignorance ; 

There never was a " dangerous truth " 

For those ivho rightly could receive it : 
This is why I the caution give 

To you and all, First knoiv thyself ; 
Tlien learn the truth, and to it cleave 

In spite of all the powers of earth, 
Or sinner's hell, if such there be : 

There is, no doubt, a hell, forsooth. 
Yet quite unlike the one which we 

In former days did hear portrayed. 
As a " seething, foaming lake " 

Where fire and brimstone ever made 
The dying sinner shiver and shake. 



226 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Such doctrines now we scarce do hear, 
And Avould to God that nevermore 

Coukl roach a sinner's hstening ear 
Such mad bhisphemous words of lore. 

The Scripture teachings we have had 

Ahuost a century of years, 
And yet how little understood ! 

" When we've been there ten thousand years," 

Will doubtless be the song of many 
Who even then can scarce conceive 

" The things prepared for them " or any 
Who do the gracious Father love. 

Ask ye why ? God's word doth tell : 
" The natural man receiveth not 
The things unseen and spiritual : " 
" They are foolishness unto him ; " 

And " neither can he know, because 
They arc spiritually discerned ; " 
" God hath revealed them unto us 
By his Spirit ; " the Spirit of God 

" Searcheth all things, yea, the deep things 
Of God." " Which things also we speak 
Not in the words which man's wisdom 
Teacheth, but wliich the Holy Ghost teacheth : 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 227 

Comparing spiritual tilings with spiritual ; " 
"And I, brethren, could not speak unto you 
As unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, 
" Even as unto babes in Christ; " 

" For what man knoweth the things of a man, 
Save the spirit of man which is in him ? 
Even so the things of God 
KnoAveth no man, but the Spirit of God ; " 

" For they that are after the flesh 
Do mind the things of the flesh ; 
But they that arc after the spirit, 
The things of the spirit." 

" For to be carnally minded is death ; 

But to l)e spiritually minded is life and peace ; " 

" The flesh lusteth against the spirit. 

And the spirit against the flesh." 

I here beg leave to just express 

My sentiments upon the theme 
Which has occupied a place 

In these pages, without rhyme. 

It is a subject I have given 

Much time and thought, and have also 
Endeavored to, Ijy observation, 

Justly discern 'tween " false and true." 



228 MISTJNDERSTOOD. 

(" I think also that I have the Spirit of God.") 
I feign would tell to you, my friends, 

How oft my heart has been made sad 
From a contact with those minds 

Who, though believing as I do 

In many things, do lack in those 
Of high import, as they do show 

By using all their feeble powers 

God's Church and people to overthrow ; 

Thinking, because they have discovered 
Some truths which many do not know, 

The Christian's ties must all be severed ; 

And they conform to — I don't know what, 
As if, indeed, they could stoop so low. 

"Well, now, " the long and short of it " 
(This is a homely phrase I know) 

In my opinion is just this : — 

If these same people who berate, 
Would release from an abyss 

Christian souls, to share their fate^ — 

They must use their best endeavor. 

Try to themselves first elevate, 
And also raise their standard higher 

Else they can not assimilate. 



MISTJNDERSTOOn. 229 

The pastor of our early friend 

(We have not quite forgotten her) 

Once brought this subject to our mind : 
He said that people greatly err, — 

And show a lack of charity, 

As well as being quite unjust 
Unto the Church's loyalty : 

Many Christians he knew expressed disgust 

At the casual mention of 

Incidents worthy of note. 
Did they not savor muchly of 

A doctrine tliey could but refute, — 

(Doctrine is not just quite the name 

For a well-estaljlished fact) 
Known as " modern Spiritualism : " 

It would require no little tact, — 

To have this subject systemized, 
Its many bearings made more plain ; 

It had so long been stigmatized 

As something " dreadfully low and mean," — 

Not by the ignorant alone, 

For there were some in every class, 

From highest to the lowest down 

Who their contempt did oft express, — 

20 



230 MISTJNDEESTOOD. 

And would be glad to crush it out 

Of existence if the}' could : 
Or, rather, if they coidd without 

Soiling their OAvn white kid gloved-hands. 

Now, if these great antagonists 

Should to each other come quite near, 

With such conflicting elements, 

They both might well tremble with fear 

For the result, as might we all. 

They seem, however, not to be 
In any haste to have a battle. 

Which is by far the better way. 

Think not that we attribute this 
Unto their own good common-sense, 

Nor yet unto their cowardice, 

But to the Lord's restraining grace. 

Her pastor did moreover saj^ 

That these same churches did contain 
Many Spiritualists even now. 

Although they would not own the name. 

Indeed, they could not ; for they knew 
It not themselves, although they were, 

In heart and deed, the same most true, 
And were also influenced more, — 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 231 

In tlieir daily walk and work, 

By this same power they did ignore, 

Than we did know or even think, 
The spirits sometimes did inspire 

Preachers and teachers for their work, 
When they themselves had not a thought 

Of any assistance in their task, 

Unless, indeed, it had been wrought 

By the Lord God himself, or else 

By the SjJirit or the Son. 
This is true in the broadest sense : 

'Tis by his instrumentality alone. 

Many assume, nevertheless, 

That all direct from Him must come. 

Now, these assumptions we think false. 
And that God's work is mostly done 

By his agencies, pure, sublime, 
In heaven above, on earth below ; 

It must have been in olden time. 
As no wise person will deny. 

We think the fact self-evident. 

From the words of Holy Writ ; 
And all who read with wise intent, 

JSIust, we are sure, acknowledge it, — 



232 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

As scarce a page from first to last, 

Of the Old or of the Ne^y, 
Can be perused, without at least 

One instance coming to our view 

Of what some angel said or done : 

Each had a mission then, as now. 
The Lord did speak to sons of men 

Tlirough angels then : so doth he now. 

' The angel of the Lord called unto ' Abraham, 
When he ' stretched forth his hand, 
And took the knife to slay his son,' 
Saying ' Lay not thine hand upon.' 

The angel of the Lord ' wrestled ' with Jacob 
Through the night watches lone and still, 
Then blessed him as a prince, and said 
His name should be called ' Israel.' 

The angel of the Lord ' loent before ' Israel 
When he journeyed to Mesopotamia, 
Where he found his wife Rebecca 
Near by a well at eventime. 

' The angel of the Ijord found ' Hagar 

' By a fountain of water in the wilderness ; ' 

Again, ' God heard the voice,' when there was 

no water, 
And, behold ! a well, as she ' opened her eyes.' 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 233 

The angel of the Lord ' ntood iii the way ' of 

Balaam^ 
And would not let his anamih go ; 
And ' she fell down under Balaam : ' 
Poor Balaam ! he didn't know what to do. 

' The angel of the Lord said unto ' Gideon, 
When fear came upon him (' for because I have 

seen" 
An angel of the Lord face to face '), 
' ' Fear not : thou shalt not die.' 

The angel of the Lord ' touched'' Elijah' 
' As he lay and slept under a juniper-tree : ' 
This was before the chariot of fire 
Took him by a whirlwind on high. 

The angel of the Lord was ' sent ' unto Daniel 
To shut the lions' mouths lest they hurt 
This holy man whom King Darius 
Caused to be cast into their den. 

The angel of the Lord ' appeared unto ' Manoah 
(Or, rather, his wife), foretelling the birth 
Of the son who ' slew a thousand men,' 
And all just with ' a new jaw-bone.' 

" And David lifted up his eyes. 
And saw the angel of the Lord 
Standing between the earth and heaven. 
Having a drawn sword in his hand." 

20* 



234 MISUKDEESTOOD. 

Time would me fail to here relate 

The many instances in which, 
In dreams and visions, tliey did cite 

The words of God, and ways in which 

God would have his people go. 

Now, one thing I would here proclaim, 
God's angels oft did thus and so, 

God himself did just the same ; 

At le&st the Bible tells us so, 

Clear and distinct, in many a place, 

Here we read. An angel thus did say, 

While there we find the veri/ same case, — 

The Lord did say, or God did say, 
And also, when an angel spake, 

Unto the Lord they made vejAy : 
They seemed to no distinction make 

In this ancient history 

Between the ' Lord,' and his ' spirits,' 
'Angels,' 'saints,' and other agencies ; 

AU shared alike God's epithets. 

The angel of the Lord said unto Hagar, — 
' I will multiply thy seed exceedingly ; ' 
' And she called the name of the Lord 
That spake unto her, Thou Grod seest me.' 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 235 

' And David lifted up his eyes, 
And saw the angel of the Lord ; ' 
* And David said unto Crod, — 
O Lord my Crod, be upon me,' &c. 

' The angel of the Lord appeared unto Moses ' 
In a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush ; 
' And, when the Lord saw that he turned aside 

to see, 
Ciod called unto him out of the midst of the bush.' 

In these three cases you will see 
'Angel,' 'Lord,' 'God,' all applied 

Unto the power or agency 

Which the intelligence supplied. 

In the five books which Moses wrote. 
The Lord is used most frequently. 

Especially when he doth cite 
His own experience chiefly. 

St. John saith, " For the law was given by 
Moses ; 

But grace and truth came by Jesus Christ." 

Immediately following cometh this 

(As if anticipating this error, or having per- 
ceived it) : — 

" No man hath seen God at any time ; 
The only begotten Son, 



236 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Wliicli is in the bosom of tlio Father, 
lie hatli revealed him." 

Instead of thinking God himself 

Did all these Avondrous deeds perform, 

We have mueh more alnindant ]ivoof 
That only through others did theij come. 

This book of wisdom doth eoulaiu 
Records of places and times untold 

Where the Lord^ or God^ hath been seen 

And countless ones when his voice has been 
heard. 

Jesus saith, " I and my Father are one ; " 

" He that believeth not God hath made him a 

liar;" 
" If Ave receive the witness of men, 
The witness of God is greater." 

" I said in my haste, All men are liars." 
For what if some did not believe ? 
Shall their unbelief make 
Tlie faith of God Avithout effect ? 

" God forbid: yea, let God be true. 
But every man a liar." 
Shall Ave believe his words are true ? 
For thus he saith of the Father : — 



MISUNDpniSTOOD. 287 

" Ye have neither hedrd his voice 

At any time, nor seen his shape." 

" No man liatli seen God at any time : " 

Why doth God's j)cople so affirm';' ye ask. 

Now, unto us it seems quite ])laiu : 

'Twas only done f(n' brevity ; 
For what, indeed, is in a name? 

With just but one known agency. 

Well, my dear friends, I've had a race 
From Genesis to — I don't know where. 

I may not show it in my face, 

But I do feel the " worse for wear." 

Think you the spirits 1 did chase 

Beheld me from the " evergreen shore," 

Smiling at my awkward grace ? 

Tlie roads were crooked, I am sure : 

How glad we'll be when they all get straight! 

Though I fear it yet will take some time ; 
And that reminds me I did start 

Before I finished all my rhyme 

Concerning churches and Iheii- ])(;o[jle's 

Spiritism and its champions (!) 
They each have burdens on their batiks: 

The churches have too many "isms; " 



238 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

While the opposing ones do lack 
The Christian element, so needed, 

To get them started in the track 
From which iifew have seceded. 

Others had nought to secede from ; 

Wc should these same pity, forthwith, 
Kindly urging them to come ; 

Accepting what tlLey know of truth ; 

Such as we have unto them give, 

Helping each other to arrive 
Unto a state of perfect love. 

And harmoniously to live. 

Others there are who do comhine 
The truths and graces of the two. 

Like as the ivy doth intwine 

Its branches in some sheltering tree. 

On such as these our hopes are centered 

For the future generations. 
Of all earth's others they have entered 

The " everlasting habitations." 

Their robes are growing whiter, purer, 
They taste e'en now the joys of heaven. 

Earth's " biiglit hopes " grow fainter, dimmer, 
As sublimer ones are given, — 



MISUNDERRTOOT). 2-51) 

Far iransccndiii<4' ill (licir hii^hlncsH 
Au,n'lit wliicli liuiiiiui eyes liavo hocii, 

Seem those (luiukeiicd by llie likeness 
Of the Father and the Son. 

1 know not how to place hel'ore you 

The theme wliicli is a very ])arL 
01" life itself, while I am with you, 

So deeply graven on my heart. 

I lone: to see God's (Jhiirch b('<;(mi(! 

(IJy Church I mean each Chiistiaii soul 
Which hath a liope Ixsyond earth's liomc;^ 

Instructed in Uio myst(n'ics 

Of heavenly wisdom, IV(!sli and pure;, 

From those bright spheres wlicrc; angels walk. 

An<)cl spirit H af fricndx moHt th'ur, 

Who used with us to walk and talk, — 

And still will do so if but wo 

(S[)iritually I mean, of course) 
Will make conditions for them to, 

Giving to us their kind advice ; 

Fointing to their own bjight h<nncs. 

Guarding us with tender care 
Through all of life's tempestuous storms, 

Until we too with them may share 



240 mSTJNDEESTOOD. 

The glorious scenes depicted there, 
Inspiring us with noble thoughts, 

And high resolves, that even here 

Our souls may reach sublimer lieights, — 

And be prepared to vie with them. 

When we shall drop this " mortal coil," 

Which doth much hinder earth's ones from 
Progressing swiftly ; we must toil ; 

But, Oh ! how sweet to feel that those 
We love so dearly are even now 

Regarding us with tender eyes. 
More full of love and pity too 

Than when they dwelt with us, and gave 

Expression to their sentiment ! 
And shall we not their love receive ? 

And they so ready to cement 

The ties of friendship gendered here ? 

Methinks their hearts do often grieve, 
When loving ones show no desire 

To aid their kind attempts to give 

A knowledge of the future state. 
As it has been portrayed to them. 

They would most gladly, too, relate 
All the wonders they have seen. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 241 

But, no ! you turn aAvay in fear, 
And dare not list to what they say ; 

Or if you do at all give ear, 

And do receive that which you know 

Comes from a friend you once did love, 
You will not tell, no one shall know, 

Or even guess, you ever gave 

Your time and thought in such a way. 

What would they think ? " Know ye not 
That the friendship of the world is enmity 
with God?" 

" To him that knoweth to do good, 
And doeth it not, to him it is sin." 

Many an one I've heard declare 
They had no wish to know a word 

Of how their " dear ones " were, or where. 
It seems so strange, and so absurd ! 

Father, mother, brother, sister, 

And, perhaps, one dearer still, 
Have passed unto a brighter sphere. 

Are they happy ? Are they well ? 

Can you, my friend, with truthful soul, 

And in sincerity of heart, 
Persist in saying it is all 

The same to you, and matters not 

21 



242 MISUinDEESTOOD. 

Where, or how, or what they are ? 

'Tis very strange, you must admit. 
Neither doth it at all compare 

With your conduct before their exit. 

I will be lenient, for I know 

You are " deceiving your own selves," 
Perhaps not now, but " by and b}'' " 

Your soul will burn with new resolves. 

Then higher thoughts and higher aims 

Will your gentle bosoms swell. 
And for truth'' s sake, if not your friends', 

You will be glad to learn it all. 

I think that even now there are 

Few who have lost their " dearest ones," 

But would be glad to with us share 
The privilege, which still remains 

So full and free to all who seek, 
And seek aright, the fountain pure. 

'Twill comfort give unto the sick. 

And make their hopes of heaven more sure. 

" Are they not all ministering spirits ? " 
Methinks they are ; who can say nay ? 

Who could so well know our just merits ? 
Who could so lovingly repay 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 243 

A mother's warm and tender care, 
As that dear child who went away ? 

She knows the anguish you must bear, 
And would so gladly comfort you 

By telling of her own iDriglit home ; 

Her dear companions and pursuits. 
Her heart is light ; no shade of gloom 

Beneath her sun, which never sets. 

No joys of earth can quite compare 

With the bliss she now enjoys ; 
AVhich bliss can in its turn no more 

Compare with that which she foresees. 

Her mind expands from day to day. 

And her thoughts grow brighter, clearer, 

As she walks the heavenly way : 

These thoughts she would share with her 
mother. 

And will that mother turn away 

From her sweet and gentle daughter, 

Because of what the world may say ? 
If so she is a foolish mother, — 

Who only can expect to reap 

The grain which she preferred to sow ; 

When, indeed, she might drink deep 
From the fountain which doth o'erflow 



244 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

With heavenly knowledge, and wisdom too. 

That some are held in check, I know, 
Who otherwise would gladly go 

To seek communion in this way. 

Some friends of theirs, perhaps, have been 

AVithout receiving satisfaction. 
There may have been no one to blame, 

It only was a wrong condition. 

Another time, another place, 

Or another medium, might 
Your disappointment all erase. 

Be not discouraged : all will come right 

If you do only persevere. 

The medium ma}^ be at fault ; 
Or, rather, you may not secure 

An one quite suited to the spirit. 

The controlling spirits do seem 

Quite anxious that the laws which govern 
Also control the medium 

Should be better understood ; 

Although they do proceed with care. 
Fearing lest they may give offense ; 

Neither are they themselves quite sure, 
As they do lack experience. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 245 

So, " if at first you don't succeed," 

Obey this rule, and " try again." 
Our mediums have been compared 

To instruments all out of tune. 

(The people help to make them so.) 

The spirit may be all " in time," 
And know just what he wants to say ; 

But fails to find a medium 

Through which he can communicate 

So that he may be understood. 
The little which the friends do get 

Seems not at all like what they would 

Expect from him ; and they distrust. 

Whereas, if they would take more time, 
Have stronger faith, a firmer trust, 

It would, I think, come right in time, — 

And would repay them more than double. 

If they did try twice, or thrice even, 
What was that ? No great trouble 

Compared to what is after given. 

But I forgot the instrument. 

Suppose a celebrated player 
Sat down to a strange instrument : 

His heart and soul did seem on fire, — 

21* 



246 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Because he long had been deprived 

Of his favorite amusement. 
But now " A feast I'll liave," he cried. 

Ahxs ! prepare for disappointment. 

No sounds but harsh, discordant ones 
Do reach the listener's wondering ears. 

He is disgusted with its tones ; 

Thinks ne'er again he'll " put on airs." 

But, after all, he's not to blame. 

Give him a well-tuned instrument. 
And see if it will sound the same. 

And thus it may be with the spirit. 

It can do right well its part. 

When it doth find the way and means, 
But sometimes doth almost lose heart, 

And fear these people have no brains. 

From this you'll see it doth require 
Much perseverance on their part, 

As well as yours. And let me here 
Suggest to you upon the start : — 

If you do to a medium go, 

" Go with pure mind and feeling ; " 
And let your heart from care be free ; 

And let there be no " double dealiufr " 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 247 

Unless you wish it in return. 

The spirits which do you attend 
Have, themselves, much yet to learn. 

Treat thou them all with due respect ; 

And they Avill doubtless, in their turn, 
Regard your wishes, and endeavor 

To do for you the best they can. 
If true ; if false, you will discover 

In time " to save your soul alive : " 
Nor then give up, but try another ; 

Doubting not ye will receive 

A soul-joy which ye cannot smother. 

If you but once do get a taste, 

I'll be content ; for I am sure 
My words will only be a waste ; 

For you'll need lu^ging nevermore. 



Perhaps, my friends, you would me ask, 
How doth progress our heroine ? 

She is learning well her task. 

And will, we hope, now quite soon' 

Commence to write, as was foretold ; 

Although we could not fix the date. 
Indeed, her pastor seldom would 

Opinion give in this respect. 



248 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

He said, witli them they connted time 
Not like we do upon this sphere ; 

They saw events, and by the same 
Could get, perhaps, somewhere near ; 

Yet they never felt quite sure, 
And seldom tried the time to get. 

While one event might seem quite near, 
Another seemed quite distant yet, — 

And still another came between. 

They saw them all, and knew quite well 
Which would come first, which intervene : 

Farther than this they could not tell. 

I do not wish to here convey 

The opinion that none have power 

" The times and seasons '" to descry. 
I speak just only now of her, — 

And the guides which did attend. 

When an event was very near, 
They did often condescend 

To give'*the time distinct and clear. 

Otherwise they seemed inclined 
To keep quite silent, if they knew. 

This adage may have ruled their mind : — 
" Distance lends enchantment to the view." 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 240 

Our friend was not at all inclined 

To ask beyond what tliey might choose 

To spontaneously provide. 
She felt her indignation rise 

Full many a time, at words addressed 

Unto these same " invisibles," 
Who were so often sorely pressed 

By questionings innumerable. 

Much as she loved their sweet converse, 

She ever felt a sense of awe 
Stealing o'er her outwardness, — 

A fear, lest she something might say 

Or ask amiss, or which might shock 

Their quick suscej^tibilities. 
Her future was a sealed book, 

Except so far as they did choose 

Its pages to unfold to her. 

She would as soon, yea, much sooner, 
Have endeavored to descry 

The secrets of a soul of honor 

In the form ; and that, we know. 

Would be beneath her dignity. 
Her thoughts, howe'er, woidd come and go, 

Almost with the rapidity 



250 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Of liglitning flashes, and brooked control. 

And sometimes, too, came as quickl}'- 
A Ivind reply unto lier soul ; 

Showing that they read correctly 

Her mind, as well. No secrets she 

From them could keep, nor did she wish it ; 

But only to be pure and true, — 
Faultless within, the same without. 

A character we seldom find 

Of more innate delicacy, 
A soul more noble and refined. 

She had been thus from infancy. 

One caution now I wish to give 

To those who seek their angel friends : — 
It hath been said, " Ask and receive : " 

This may fulfill the law's demands ; 

And still it may not please your friend, 

Unless done in a civil way. 
Remember, they have not attained 

Perfection yet, and sometimes may, — 

If they do respond at all, 

Partly reply in your own coin. 
Then treat them kindly, and you will 

JNIuch more satisfaction gain. 



MISUNDEJISTOOD. 251 

It also liath bcQU said of old, — 

" Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask 
amiss." 
If ye do licre find things twice told, 

Let them more deep your minds impress. 

" Shall we know each other there ? " 
These words did furnish, just for once, 

Between our friend and pastor dear, 
The subject for a short discourse. 

Each one, he said, did know instinctively 
Who was his friend, and who was not ; 

For none could there deceitfully 

Pretend to that which they were not. 

This lesson all did (j[uickly learn ; 

As they were sure to be found out 
If they attempted such a thing. 

Confusion there was never wrought; 

For law and order were the rule. 

As for society, each one 
Did his or hers alone control : 

They were beholden unto none. 

Congenial hearts alone could meet 

In the bonds of sacred love. 
Earthly ties, borne by deceit. 

Found no dwelling-place above. 



or.o 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 



Harmony of tliought and feeling 
Failed not to attract and gain 

Friends, who, all their love revealing, 
Had no harsh feelings to restrain. 

Of course, if any chose to seek 

The abodes of sinfulness. 
They could do so, and partake 

Of all their sins and wickedness ; 

Just the same as in New York, 

Or any other earthly place. 
One could plunge into the depths 

Of degradation and disgrace. 

But would God's noblest ones of earth 

Have any inclination to 
Place themselves in such a berth? — 

Except it were to Idndly try 

To upraise those darkened souls ; 

Who scarce have seen a ray of light ; 
Pointing out the fearful shoals 

Which wreck the traveller in the dark. 

No more could these polluted ones 

Enjoy refined society, 
Nor hear the happy, joyous tones 

Proceed from heaven's locality. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 253 

'Twould not be ' manna ' to their souls, 
Nor bread which tlicy wouhl care to eat ; 

The wave of sin which o'er them rolls 
Seems more natural and sweet, — 

Because of their perverted life. 

They must begin by slow degrees 
To change their habits ; but the strife. 

Though hard of course, would bring sweet 
peace 

When it had the victory won. 

For every knee in time shall bow. 
And every tongue confess the Son 

Most worthy all the honor due. 

Many people have yet to learn, 

That "kingdom of God," or "kingdom of 
heaven," 
(Which in the Scriptures mean the same : 

Compare Mark vi. and verse 11, — 

With Matthew xiii., verse the same). 

As here applied, doth designate 
l^ot-^ place of wide renown. 

But simply indicates a state. 

State of what? do you inquire? 

State of the heart and soul within. 
Doubtless many will this ignore. 

Declaiming that it is " too thin." 

22 



254 MISUXDEESTOOD. 

But, if we compreliend aright, 

'Tis what the word of God doth teach. 

Jesus, " when he was demanded of the Pharisees, 
"When the kingdom of God shoukl come, — 

" He answered them, and said. The kingdom of 

God 
Cometh not by observation : 
Neither shall they say, Lo here ! or, Lo there ! 
For, behold, the kingdom of God is within you : " 

' The kingdom of God is come unto you^ 

' The kingdom of God sliall he taken from you.'' 

Blessed are the pure in spirit. 

For theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 

Blessed are they which are persecuted 
For righteousness' sake ; 
For theirs is the kingdom of heaven." 
Observe, not shall he^ but is. 

' For the kingdom of God is at hand.'' 
"And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, 
And said, Blessed be ye poor ; 
For yours is the kingdom of God." 

'And when Jesus saw that he answered discreetly. 
He said unto lum. Thou art not far from the 

kingdom of God, 
' And that we must through much tribulation 
Enter into the kingdom of God ; ' 



MISUNDERSTOOD. Sf).^) 

" Let not your good 1)G evil s])okcM of: 

For the kingdom of God is not moat and drink ; 

But righteousness, and peace, and joy in the 

Holy Ghost." 
"For the kingdom of God is not in word, but 

in power." 

" And I will give unto thee 

The keys of the kingdom of God ; 

"Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of 

God 
As a little cliild, he sliall not enter tlKirein ; " 

" But I tell you, of a truth. 
There be some standing here, 
Who shall not taste of death 
Till they see the kingdom of God ; 

" What ! know ye not that your body 

Is the temple of the Holy Ghost wliich is in 

you. 
Which ye have of God, and ye are not your 

own ? " 
" Our God is a consuming fire." 

' But seek ye first the kingdom of God ; ' 
" It is better for thee to enter 
Into the kingdom of God with one eye 
Than, having two eyes, to be cast into hell." 



256 MISUNDEESTOOD. 

If heaven is witliin us, as we have shown, 

Is it not as reasonable to suppose 

The sinner's. /ic'ZZ is also within ? 

"And jour argument with hell shall not stand." 

" The pains of hell gat hold upon me ; " 

" The sorrows of hell compassed me about ; " 

David was surely in the form 

When these hells were in or around him. 

" My flesh also shall rest in hoj)e, 
For Thou wilt not leave my soul in hell ; " 
" The way of life is above to the wise ; 
That he may depart from hell beneath." 

" He seeing this before spoke of the resurrection 

of 
Cl^ist, that his soul was not left in hell ; " 
" Watch ye therefore, and pray always. 
That 3'e may be thought worthy to escape." 

If He, our Example, so good and great, 
" Descended into hell," and rose again, 
Does it not prove beyond a doubt, 
Others may do the very same ? 

" I would not that ye should be ignorant, 
How that all our fathers were under the cloud ; " 
Just think, if yon please, where Jonah was sent, 
And where was the hell from which he cried, — 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 257 

" Whither, then, shall I go from Thy Spirit ? 
Or whither shall I flee from thy presence ? 
If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there : 
If I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art 
there." 

" For every one shall be salted with fire ; " 

" Ilave salt in yourselves, and have peace one 

with another ; " 
" Better is he that ruleth his spirit 
Than he that taketli a city." 

We trust the exposition given, 

Of heaven and hell as a state. 
May not be found without its leaven 

For many do, we think, mistake 

The meaning which these passages 

(And others too of like import) 
Are intended to convey : then refuse 

Thou not, kind friends, our wise report 

To kindly consider, and compare 
With your conception of the same ; 

And may you now and evermore 

Love better truth than worldly fame ! 

This doth, we think, also explain 

Just how it is, and why as well 
It hath been said, " We each do make 

Our own heaven or our own hell." 

22* 



258 MISUNDEr.STOOD. 

We think this same not much amiss 
Nor do we only make our otvn ; 

If we no others cheer and bless, 

It proves we have no heaven within. 

And, if no heaven, we sure must have 
Something akin to the reverse ; 

And from this same others receive 

Bounteous supplies, as matter of course. 

How important, then, to all concerned, 
That we possess the joys of heaven, 

And always have at our command 
A fresh supply of goodly leaven, — 

Which shall not only satisfy 

Our own soul's need, but also tend 

Our words and deeds to qualify. 
And harmoniously to blend 

With those who need our kindly aid, 

Also our loving sympathy. 
To cheer them on the heavenly road 

To spiritual prosperity ! 

1 trust, my friends, you'll bear with me 
While I more full}'- do express 

My mind, respecting churches free 
From sanctiraonial prejudice. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 259 

(If any such there chance to be, 

"Which I sometimes do ahnost clouht) 

'Twill be indeed a glorious day, 

When all the earth shall sing- and shout . 

The same new songs, Avitli hearts attuned 

To sacred mirth and minstrelsy, 
AVlicn all, the praise of God shall sound 

In one glad song of ecstasy, — 

In which are no discordant tones 

To mingle with the heavenly strains, 

Which echo from all lands and zones, 
In thankfulness to Ilim wlio reigns 

O'er earth and skj;^, o'er land and sea, 
" How good and gracious is the Lord ! " 

All tongues and nations then shall know 
As predicted in his " sure word." 

" And other sheep," " not of this fold," 

Shall hear the voice of the " Good Shepherd ;" 

And he will bring them, we arc told ; 

" There shall be one fold and owe shepherd." 

And Jesus saith, " Upon tliis rock will I build 

my church," 
Not my churche.?, you will perceive. 
" Christ also loved the church, 
And gave himself for it, — 



260 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

" That he might sanctify and cleause it, 
That he might present it to himself 
A glorious church, not having spot 
Or wrinkle, or any such thing." 

Hath it been so kept, — this glorious church ? 

Hear what the Lord himself doth say : — 
" When ye come together in the church, 

I hear that there be divisions among you." 

There were divisions in churches then. 
There are divisions in churches now ; 

There was much truth and purity then, 
There is much truth and purity now. 

Nevertheless " Ye are not all clean." 
What saith St. Paul of the church ? 

" If then ye have judgments of things 
Pertaining to this life, set them to judge 

" Who are least esteemed in the church. 

I speak to your shame : is it so 
That there is not a wise man among you, — 

No, not one that shall be able 

" To judge between his bretliren ? " 

On the other hand, what say they of St. Paul ? 
"But we desire to hear of thee what thou 
thinkest : 

For as concerning this sect we know 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 201 

" That everywhere it is spoken against." 

"lie expounded and testified the kingdom of 

God, 
Persuading them concerning Jesus, 
Both out of the hiw of Moses, — 

And out of the prophets, 

From morning till evening ; 

And some believed the things 

Which were spoken, and some believed not." 

' They agreed not among themselves,' 

But 'had great reasoning among themselves.' 

" And Paul lived in his own hired house, 
And received all that came unto liim," — 

Preaching and teaching ' with all confidence.' 
My friends, I can scarce help compare 

The teachings of those bygone days. 

With those we now are permitted to share ; 

Also the reception of the same. 

And by the churches, if you please. 

He (St. Paul) received ' all who came unto 
him,' 
And yet he dwelt ' in his own hired house.' 

Why was this ? can you conceive ? 

Would not the churches let him in ? 
They saw, and yet " could not perceive : " 

Of course they dare not let him in. 



21)2 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Ami, beside, this ' «eel;' Avas overywliore 
' Spoken against,' and why was this? 

It seems to mo wondrously clear, 

'Twas " too advanced " for their ideas. 

Another reason : what saitli St. i'aul? 

" YoY I snppose I w;is not a whit behind 
The very ehiefest apostles, but thongli 

I be rude in speech, yet not in knowledge." 

' Rude in speech : ' could they listen 
To such an one, receive his word ? 

Although mucli grace might have been given: 
"A chosen vessel of tlie Jiord " 

He may have been, it scarce would seem 
He could liave been unto the cJiurcU : 

His task a tliankless one we deem. 
Or else he boasteth overmuch. 

" I labored more abuudantly lluin tliey all ; " 
"1 have ])rt'ac]ied to you the gospel of God 

freely r' 
" So have I strived to preacli the gospel 
Not where Christ was nauicd, lest I should build 

' Upon another man's roiiiidaliou : 

]>ul, as it is written, to wliom he was 

Not spoken of, tliey sliall see : 

And they that have not heard shall understand." 



MISUNDETtRTOOn. 203 

Wc infer froin iliis liiH tcachingB wore 

Arno/ig iJjo lowly kohh of (iurlli, 
TlioHO wJio }jud not, it would upp(;ar, 

Much "wealth of gold" to whower fortli. 

IlLs trials were too iiuuic^rous 

To mention here: 'mong others wore, 

'Hunger and thirst,' 'cold and nakedness,' 
'Beaten witli rods,' 'stripes al)Ove measure.' 

' In perils in the wilderness ; ' 

'In perils aitiong false brethren;' 
'In. weariness and in pain fulness,' 

'In watehings often,' 'ifj fastings often.' 

"Beside tljose things that are without; 

That which corneth iijjoii me daily, 
The care of all the churches." 

'I labored more !d)unfl;i.;itly.' 

His fourteen epistles do show 

That he labored most faithfully; 
Mucli time anrl tfj ought lie did thus bestow 

On churches, who treated him scornfully. 

His words, at times, seern to express 

Feelings akin to pent>up grief; 
Almost a tinge of bitterness, 

Because of people's unbelief. 



264 MISUNDEESTOOD. 

His nature, doubtless, sensitive ; 

At least, it doth that way appear, 
For he would not that any give 

Compensation for his labor. 

" And when I was present with you. 
And wanted, I was chargeable to no man." 
" And in all things I have kej^t myself 
From being burdensome unto you, — 

And so will I keep myself." 

" Truly the signs of an apostle 

Were wrought among you in all patience, 

In signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds. 

For what is it wherein ye were 
Inferior to other churches ? 
Except it be that I myself 
Was not burdensome to you ? " 

" The third time I am ready to come to you : 

And I will not be burdensome to you : 

For I seek not yours, but you." 

" I will very gladly f>pend and be spent for you ; 

Though, the more abundantly 
I love you, the less I be loved : 
But be it so, I did not burden you." 
Did I make a gain of you 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 265 

By any of them whom I sent unto you ? 
" Did Titus make a gain of you ? 
Walked we not in the same spirit ? 
Walked we not in the same steps ? " 

For I fear, lest, when I come, 

I shall not find you such as I would ; 

And that I shall be found 

Unto you such as ye would not." 

" Then was given to me a thorn in the flesh ; 
The messenger of Satan to buffet me, 
Lest I should be exalted above measure. 
For this I besought the Lord thrice, — 

That it might depart from me. 

And he said unto me. My grace is sufficient for 

thee; 
For my strength is made perfect in weakness." 
" Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities ; 

For, when I am weak, then am I strong." 
" For we can do nothing against the truth. 
But for the truth ; for we are glad 
When we are weak, and ye are strong. 

And this also we wish, even your perfection. 
Therefore I write these things, being absent, 
Lest, being present, I should use sharpness 
According to the power which the 

23 



266 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Lord hath given me to edification, 
And not to destruction. 
Finally, brethren, farewell. 
Be patient, be of good comfort ; 

Be of one mind, live in peace : 

And the God of love and peace shall be with you. 

Greet one another with an holy kiss : 

The Holy Ghost be with you all ! Amen." 

"I will praise thee, O Lord, With my whole 

heart ; 
I will show forth all thy marvelous works ; 
I will be glad and rejoice in thee." 
" For thou hast maintained my right and my 

cause." 

This was the language of my heart 

As, in the house of God to-day, 
I listened to the glad report 

Of one whom I in childhood knew 

As pastor, friend ; father in 3-ears : 

His kindly face, and noble brow. 
Awoke within sweet memories 

Of those bright days so long ago. 

His form and features were familiar ; 

His voice, an echo from the past. 
So deep and rich the tones peculiar. 

The language of an earnest heart. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 267 

1 could not very well remember 

His former teachings, but to-day 
Methought an angel kind and tender 

IMust have told him what to say ; 

And all to please " poor little me ; " 
Oh ! what am I, my gracious Lord, 

That thou shouldst ever mindful be 
Of my firm trust in thy sure word, — 

And fill my waiting, hungry soul 

With angel's food ? I nought can give 

Thee in return, except my toil 

For thy dear sake ; wilt thou receive 

And bless the same ? and may I share 

With other souls thy perfect gift, 
Repaying all thy tender care 

By aiding others to uplift 

The ' veil ' of " Moses' ancient law, ' 

Substituting in its place 
Our Saviour's loving gospel true 

All so bright and glorious ! 

This was the subject of discourse. 
To which I listened with dehght ; 

As he did man}^ things rehearse 

Which I had penned but just last night; 



268 ]\nsu]srDERSTOOD. 

I mean the substance, not my verse : 
This greatl}^ did my heart rejoice, 

Because in all I could not trace 
One sentiment to mine averse. 

Much said he concerning Paul, 
Who did this same epistle write ; 

Second Corinthians iii., pray read it all, 
And may it by God's Holy Spirit 

In ' fleshy tables of the heart ' 

Be written all indelibly ! 
And may you have in Christ rich trust I 

God then shall be your ' sufficiency.' 

" But if the ministration of death, 
Written and engraven in stones, was glorious, 
Which glory was to be do7ie away. 
How shall not the ministration 

Of the spirit be rather glorious ? 
For, if the ministration 
Of condemnation be glory. 
Much more dolh the ministration 

Of righteousness exceed in glory ; 

For even that wliich was made glorious 

Plad no glory in this respect, 

By reason of the glory that excclleth." 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 269 

The law, he said, did onl}^ tend, 
As ' schoolmaster,' to bring us all 

Unto our Christ, who was the ' end ' 
Of ' law ' to all of ' Israel.' 

The law did threaten, it had no mercy ; 

The law caused fear, it knew not love ; 
The law commanded, not led gently ; 

Tlie law condemned, it did not save. 

An illustration beautiful 

He also gave to show us liow 
The gospel love doth much excel, 

In power and glory, Moses's law. 

The moon, he said, gave forth much light ; 

But, when the glorious sun did rise, 
Its splendor was so much more bright, 

The light of moon did " wax and wane." 

It had not gone : it still remained ; 

So did the law which Moses gave, 
And would, indeed, forever stand ; 

But our Saviour's ' gospel of love,' 

The ' ministration of righteousness ' — 
Did Moses's law ' exceed in glory,' 

As the sun in all its brightness 

Did outshine tlie moorCs pale beauty. 

23* 



270 * MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Excuse mc if I here do give 

Some thoughts suggested to my mind 
Upon the theme of ' law ' and ' love ' 

"Which was so truthfoll}' explained 

By our noble-minded friend : — 
We now are in the morn of life : 

Not one can see or know the end. 

Of course there must be toil and strife ; 

There e'er has been, there e'er will be, 
• So long as eartli and heaven remain ; 
Yet our hardest battles, it seems to me, 
Have all been fought, the ' victor}^ won.' 

In da3-s of old there was no light, 
Except unto "God's chosen few ; ' 

And theirs seemed not so very bright : 
Their faith alone kept it in view. 

Our progress yet has been but slow : 
Although the 'Sun of Righteousness' 

Arose hundreds of j'cars ago. 

We comprehend not half its brightness 

Or half its glor}^ even now ; 

And, as I said, we yet do seem 
Just in the morning of our day ; 

A day in spring, so doth it seem. 



MISUNDEESTOOD. - 271 

The winter now is past and gone, 

With its nights so long and chill, 
And days which scarce could see the sun 

Ere it sank to rest behind the hill. 

These winter days I would compare 

To those dark ages long ago, 
Before our Saviour did appear. 

His love and mercy for to show. 

His coming seems like gentle spring's ; 

The days grow longer and more bright : 
The birds are here, they sweetly sing. 

And fill our hearts with glad delight. 

Excuse me, friends, nor think me mad. 

If I a little farther go. 
The spring which made our hearts so glad. 

And led us gently all the way, 

Must soon give place to summer day. 

Bidding us all a kind adieu. 
Urge him not for to longer stay ; 

He knows far better than do you. 

Then hear his words, judge by the truth. — 
First let me say the word (truth) oft seems 

To infer, the spirit of truth. 
May this knowledge send some gleams 



2l2 ' MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Of light unto the ' sons of earth.' 

' Holy Sph-it,' ' Comforter,' 
' Holy Ghost,' ' Spirit of truth,' 

Seem all to mean the very same. 

" Nevertheless I tell you the truth ; 
It is expedient for you that I go away : 
For, if I go not away. 
The Comforter will not come unto you ; 

But, if I depart, I Avill send hhn unto j'ou," 
" Howheit, when he, the Spirit of truth, is come. 
He shall guide you into all truth : 
For he shall not speak of himself ; 

But, whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak, 
And he shall show you things to come ; " 
" But the ' Comforter^' which is the '•Holy Ghost,' 
Whom the Father will send in my name, — 

ffe shall teach you all things. 
And bring all thinr/s to your remembrance, 
Whatsoever I have said unto 3'ou ; " 
" And, because / tell you the truth, ye believe 
me not." 

" And they shall turn away their ears from the 

' truth,' " 
" Who concerninq; the ' truth' have erred." 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 273 

" If WO say that wo liavo no sin, 
Wo deceive oursclvos, and Iho '■irxf/i/ is not in 
us." 

"Ho tliat saitli, I know liini, and kocpolh not 

Ids commandmenis, 
Is a liar, and tlio '■fnilh^ is no(, in liim." 
" Josns answered, Thou sayest that I am a Iving, 
For tins end was I hoin ; 

And for this canio I into the world, 

That I should bear witness unto tlu; ' truth.' 

Every one that is of the ' truth ' hcareth my 

words." 
" And for Iheir sakes I sanctify myself, — 

That they also might be sanctified through the 

Hruthy 
" Pilate saith nnto him, What is truth ? " 
"And, if I say the '■ truth,'' why do ye not 

believe ? " 
" Ye shall know the ' truth,' and the ' truth ' shall 

make you free. 

That we henceforth be no more; children, 

Tossed to and fro, and eai-ricd about 

With every wind of doctrine, 

By the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, — 



274 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Whereby they lay in wait to deceive us ; 
But, speaking the ' truth ' in love, 
May grow up into Him in all things, 
Which is the head, even Clu'ist." 

" That the ' truth ' of the gospel miglit continue 

with you ; " 
" For we can do nothing against the ' truth,^ but 

for the triith,^^ 
" But we are bound to give thanks alway to 

God for 5^ou, 
Brethren, beloved of the Lord, — 

Because God hath from the beginning 
Chosen you to salvation, through sanctification 
Of the ' Sj)irU,' and belief of the ' truth: " 
" We therefore ought to receive such, — 

That we might be fellow-helpers to the ' truth: " 
" For I rejoiced greatly when the brethren came, 
And testified of the ' triith ' that is in thee ; 
Even as thou walkest in ' truth: 

I have no greater joy than to have 

My children walk in the ' truth: " 

" Who will have all men to be saved. 

And to come unto the knowledge of the ' truth ; '" 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 275 

" That the ' truth ' of the gospel might continue 

with you." 
"Who hath bewitched you, that ye should not 
Obey the ' truths'' before whose eyes 
Jesus Christ hath been evidently 

Set forth crucified, among you ? " 
" Because they received not the love 
Of the ' triitli^ that they might be saved." 
" Ever learning and never able 

To come to the knowledge of the ' truth.'' " 

" Now, as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, 

So do these resist the ' truth.'' " 

My friend, " art not thou also one of these ? " 

And dost thou not in thine heart resist 
The Comforter^ the " Spirit of truth" 
Which shall " teach you all things," also assist 
In bringing to remembrance the truth ? 

And dost not thou also turn from 

The ' Spirit of truth ' (or spirits), Avhich by 
this power, 
Christ saith, shall " show thee things to come " ? 

Have ye or yours this mystic power ? 

Has thou the ' veil ' upon thine heart ? 
Or hath it been taken away ? 



276 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

I beseech thee, friend, search well thine heart, 
If there the ' vail,' behold the remedy. 

"And not as Moses, who put a ' vail ' over his face, 
That the children of Israel could not steadfastly 

look 
To the end of that which is abolished, 
But their minds were blinded ; 

For unto this day remaineth the same ' vail,' 
Untaken away in the reading of the Old 

Testament ; 
Which veil is done away in Christ." 
May God help j-our unbelief ! 

May the same Lord direct my pen ! 

For that which now I would reveal, 
I fain would write with ' iron pen ' 

Upon thine heart, and it unseal. 

Mark thou this, that ' Moses' vail ' 

Is said to be ' over his face,' 
So ' that the children of Israel ' 

From Moses' day, even unto this, — 

' Could not steadfastly look ' 

Unto the end, which end is Christ. 

End of what ? what saitli the Book ? 
End of the law, ' done away in Christ.' 



MIRUNDEnRTOOD. 277 

Here comes a pause ; note yc the change? 

Christ no longer is the theme, 
Another comes, mysterious, strange. 

And yet the same Christ said should come. 

"But even unto this day, when Moses is read, 
Tlie vail is upon their heart ; 
Nevertheless, when it shall turn to tiie Lord, 
The vail shall be taken away. 

Now, the Lord is that apirlt ; 

And, where the Sj)irit of the Lord is, there is 

liberty. 
But we all witli open face lK;holding, 
As in a glass, the glory of th(! I^oi-d, — 

Arc changed int(j tlje sanu; image. 

From glory to glory, even ])y the spirit of the 

Lord." 
When Christ came, he abolished the law. 
And yet lie did not tahe it away. 

Nor did lie take lh(! " vail ' away, 

If we do compi'(;licnd aright ; 
List ye ! " TJce vail shall be taken aivay : " 

Ask yc by whom ? " By the Spirit." 

Or, if you please, by tliOHe spirits: 
For have we not most clearly shown 

There be many ' ministering spirits,' 
Although the power be God's alone ? 

24 



278 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

I fear I've not made plain to you, 
About the ' vail ' on Moses's face : 

We read tliat if Avas ' done aicai/,' 

Away from 'vyhat? just from tJieface. 

"But even unto tJiis day 

The ' vail ' is upon tlieir Jicart."' 
Dost see ? Christ took not that away. 

He did most faithfully his part. 

The Spirit is waiting to do his. 

Will 3*6 drive him from your heart ? 
Nay, open wide the prison doors, 

And make him of thyself a part. 

For then, indeed, shall 3'e be 'changed' 

From '• gior}' to glory,'' into his image same. 

The spirits pure have it arranged, 
And wait for j'ou to bid them come. 

Oh, my dear friends, did you but know 

One-half the blessedness I feel, 
And which increaseth day by day, 

As ' these ' more lofty thoughts reveal, — 

Methinks jon would unbax the door 

Of thine unbelieving heart, 
And never, never, oh ! nevermore 

Live thj^self from ' them ' apart. 



MTSTJISIDERSTOOD. 279 

But open wide iliu ducjrs long barred, 

Bid angels pure enter therein ; 
Strip thee of thy ' robe of pride,' 

Let no earth pleasures come between. 

They are but vain and hollow all. 

Compared to tliose bright joys unseen, 

Save hy those whom angels call, 

And who are willing, in their turn, — 

To give tliem heed, and learn the way 
To heaven, and God, a,iid all that's good. 

Yet, they will kindly teach you how 
To shun the ways that lead to bad ; 

They will soothe thy aching brow. 
And cheer thy heart so lone and sad, 

And, Oh I such tender love bestow. 
It can not liclp but make thee glad, — 

Glad that thou on earth below 

Can commune with saints above. 
Those saints thine own dear loved ones too. 

Made still more happy hy tliy love. 

And now, my friends, canst thou not sec 

^Vliy the summer days must come 
Ere we can all their brightness know ? 

The ' Comforter,' has he not come 



280 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Already, to many a heart ? 

So we do have just now and then, 
In spring", a da}^ of summer heat : 

Yet not until bright, sunny June 

Comes summer with intent to stay. 

'Tis then we have our shortest night, 
Our longest and our brightest day ; 

The sun has reached meridian height. 

We see its glorious splendor now 
As we have never seen before. 

And yet we all full well do know. 

The sun remains quite fixed and sure. 

Its beams do now no brighter shine, 
Than in those v/intry days of j'ore. 

And so with us. We do divine 

Increasing light : the " Comforter " 

Hath always been just quite the same ; 

If not in him, where, then, the change ? 
My precious friends, 'tis nearer home, 

'Tis in yourselves. A wider range 

Of thought have you, and also more 
Enlightenment ; a clearer view 

Of what has beeii, what mai/ transpire. 
Than had your " sires " of long ago. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 281 

Summer, spring, and winter too, 

All have their pleasiu"cs and their cares : 

Not only so, their roses too. 

Each for the coming one prepares. 

The precious seed is mostly sown 

In the springtime of our years ; 
Yet not until the summer's sun 

Do we behold the cultured flowers. 

Thus did our Saviour and our King 

Sow seeds of mercy and of love. 
It is the ' spirit ' which shall bring 

Perfection fitting for above. 

The autumn, too, with splendor bright 
Will come in time, and bring its share 

Of flowers, and tinted leaves so bright, 
With ripened fruits so rich and rare. 

Then too will come the " golden sheaves," 
From seeds which were in springtime soAvn ; 

They sprang up then, and put forth leaves; 
No fruit or blossoms yet were seen. 

The summer's sun, with genial ray, 

]\Iust bring them forth to life, light, and 

Then, in the autumn of our day, 
We sure shall reap if we ' faint not.' 

24* 



282 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

If thoii to me, (as Festiis did to Paul) 
Shalt say, " Thou art beside thyself ; 

IMuch learning doth make thee mad," 
I shall, like Paul, defend myself. 

I am not mad, most noble friend ; 

The words I speak are words of truth, 
As ye shall find when comes the end. 

Though now ye think them little worth. 

The "king," too, "knoweth of these things. 
Before whom also I speak freely : " 

I am ' persuaded ' that ' these things ' 
"Were ' not done in a corner ' slyly. 

" Therefore, seeing we have this ministry. 
As we have received merc}^, we faint not ; 
But have renounced the hidden things of dis- 
honesty. 
Not walking in craftiness, — 

Nor handling the ivord of God deceitfully. 

But by manifestation of the truth 

Commending ourselves to every man's con- 
science 

In the sight of God. But, if our gospel be 
hid, — 

It is hid to them that are lost : 

In whom the God of this tvorld hath blinded 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 283 

The minds of them whieh believe not ; " 
Lest the light of the gospel ' should shine unto 
them.' 



Good morrow, dear friends; and how do you 
do? 

I sure am light glad to see you once more ; 
I often do sit and listen unto 

The words of wisdom, the heavenly lore, — 

Which is being transmitted unto you, 

From wliat you call the " evergreen shore ; " 

And now I will tell you the reason why 

That name has been given : 'twill ever en- 
dure. 

'Twill ever be green, this beautiful shore ; 

Because of our deeds and our words of love, 
Which are unto it a refreshing shower : 

Now we have indeed a bright home above, — 

But we do ourselves help to make it so. 
By our endeavor to be pure and true : 

Now many receive, while dwelling below. 
Of their future abode a very false view, — 

And think they can go, as it were, with a bound, 
From their homes below, right straight into 
glory ; 



284 ' MISUNDERSTOOD. 

But wlieu they get here they are sure to find 
'Twas about as true as an allegor5% 

If they have endeavored, while there upon earth, 
To improve the talents which they did have, 

They will find pure joy in the heavenly birth, 
And with the bright spirits continue to live ; 

But if, instead, their talent was hid, 

Their first work will be to hunt up the same ; 

Then take warning, dear friends, and do as 
you're bid ; 
Do your work helow, before you do come 

To your heavenly mansion bright above. 

If tvhen you get here you would enter in : 
Elsewise you may knock, you may pray and 
strive ; 
'Twill be useless quite, for you can not get 
in 

Without the password ; which password is this : 
" I have done what I could, do Thou the rest : 

The talents you gave have amounted to this ; 
Accept the same, and give me sweet rest." 

If this you can say in earnest and truth. 

Kind friends will await you when you do get 
here, 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 285 

While others attend your passage from earth, 
Leaving you no cliance for doubt or for fear. 

This subject is not the one which I chose 
To call to your mind at the present time ; 

So now I will leave it if so you do please, 

And give you a theme which, if not sublime, — 

Is no fault of heaven ; for here we do know 
'Tis the fountain or source of the purest bliss 

Which spirits above or -mortals below 

Have known, or can knoiv^ and which will 
them bless, — 

Whenever they learn to interpret aright. 

Many now do make it a fearful abyss. 
And try mighty hard to crush it outright : 

That never can be : 'tis heaven's own kiss — 

Excuse me, dear friends, I had forgotten to give 
This wonderful subject its real Christian name 

It is — it is — oh, what but " Free Love ! " 
You may point at me the finger of shame : 

'Twill do me no harm, or hinder me either 
From " saying my say," accept it or not ; 

Sin lies at your door, if you do choose rather 
To condemn the same, believing it not. 



286 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Your hands you may lift in holiest horror ; 

You may think me one of "arch Satan's" 
crew ; 
But first, my dear friends, had you not better 

Just wait a little till you hear me through ? 

Now unto the friends who already have found 
The "pearl of great price," notliing more 
need be said 
But to you who have heard but the clanging 
sound 
Of that which you fear would sure Idll you 
dead, — 

If you ever should dare approach very near ; 

To you is my mission this hot summer day ; 
I know, my dear friends, you are puzzled sore, 

And wondering now what I have to say. 

There never has heen^ there never can be, 
A love upon earth, a love in the sky, 

Other than this, a love which is '■free ! ' 
Many will doubtless this assertion deny; 

'Twill make not with me, or the truth 1 uphold, 
One iota of change : the truth will stand firm. 

Love can not be bought, love can not be sold. 
Doth not your own hearts this language con- 
firm ? 



MISUNDEKSTOOD. 287 

If you love^ you love ; your lips may deny it, 
Your conduct may not in any way show it ; 

That is, if you choose to never reveal it ; 

But, if you love^ you love^ nor yet can you 
help it. 

If you dovbt love, you don't, say what you will : 
Now, love is unlike every other thing ; 

You can not control it by force of your will. 
Nor can you hj force the sentiment bring. 

It never will come in any such wa}^ ; 

It 'must be spontaneous, it must be free, 
Else it is not love. Now, whatever you say, 

I think in your heart you'll with me agree. 

It was said of old, " Love is strong as death ; " 
And this also, " Many waters can not quench 
love:' 

The subject I leave, for frail sons of earth 
Have no power to conceive of heavenly love. 

But what I did mean by the dark " abyss " 
Is the thing which you do confound with it ; 

Which last is as black as the blackest of foes. 
While the first is as pure as an angel of light. 

The first one is love, the last one is lust : 

You may give them one name, and try as you 
will 



288 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

To make them appear both on the same list, 
Love will be Iovl\ and lust is lust still. 

However jovl place them, they never will blend, 
For love is of heaven., and lust is of hell. 

May God in his mercy teach you all to find 
Love imdefiled from the pure crj^stal well ! 

" Beloved, let us love one another : 

For love is of God ; and every one that loveth 

Is born of God, and knoweth God ; 

He that loveth not knoweth not God ; 

For God is love." Again : " God is love ; 
And he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, 
And God in him : herein is our lovo made perfect, 
That we may have boldness in the day of judg- 
ment; 

Because., as he is, so are ive in this world. 
There is no fear in love ; but perfect love 
Casteth out fear ; because fear hath torment. 
He that feareth is not made perfect in love." 

" Love worketh no ill to his neighbor ; 
Therefore love is the fulfilling of the law : 
For all the law is fulfilled in one word, 
Even this : Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thy- 
self." 



MISUNDEESTOOD. 289 

" The elder unto the elect lady and her cluldren, 
Wliom I love in the truth ; and not / only, 
But also all they that have known the truth." 
Now, thhik you, rny friends, there's «m in such 
love? 

" I have fed you with milk, and not witli moat ; 
For hitherto were you not able to bear it, 
Neither yet now are ye able.'* 
" I have yet many things to say unto you ; 

But ye can not hear them now." 

" jMorcover, I will endeavor that ye may be able 

After my deeeaae to have these things 

Always in rememhrancey 

" And he that sat upon the throne said, — 

Behold, I make all things new." 

Let your faith be strong; 'add to your faith 

virtue.' 
" And the God of love and peace shall Ijc with 

you." 

" For I will not dare to speak of any of those 

things 
Which Christ hath not wrought by me." 
" But, when that which is perfect is come. 
Then that which is in part shall be done away." 

25 



290 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

" Hearken unto me now therefore, O ye children, 
And attend to the words of my mouth ; " 
" To keep thee from the evil woman, 
From the flattery of the tongue of the strange 
woman." 

" And, behold, there met him a woman 
With the attire of an harlot ; 
Let not thine heart decline to her ways, 
Go not astray in her paths ; 

For she hath cast down many wounded ; 
Yea, many strong men have been slain by her. 
Her house is the way to hell, 
Going down to the chambers of death." 

" Lust not after her beauty in thine heart. 
Neither let her take thee with her eyelids ;" 
" For the lips of a strange woman drop as a 

honeycomb. 
And her mouth is smoother than oil ; 

But her end is bitter as wormwood. 
Sharp as a two-edged sword, 
Her feet go clown to death ; 
Her steps take hold on hell." 

" And I find more bitter than death the woman 
Whose heart is snares and nets, and her hands 
as bands : 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 291 

Whoso pleaseth God sliall escape from her ; 
But the sinner shall be taken by her." 

" A foolish woman is clamorous ; 

She is simple, and knoweth nothing ; " 

" Whoso is simple, let him turn in hither ; 

And, as for him that wanteth understanding, — 

She saith to him, Stolen waters are sweet, 
And bread eaten in secret is pleasant ; 
But he knoweth not that the dead are there. 
And that her guests are in the depths of hell." 

" Drink waters out of thine own cistern, 
And running waters out of thine own well ; " 
" Let them be only thy own, and not strangers' 
With thee. Let thy fountain be blessed ; 

And rejoice with the wife of thy youth." 
" And why wilt thou, my son. 
Be ravished with a strange woman. 
And embrace the bosom of a stranger ? 

For the ways of a man are before the 
Eyes of the Lord, and he pondereth 
All his goings." Take heed, therefore, 
Lest your "house be left unto you desolate." 

" How much better is it to get wisdom than gold ! 
And to get understanding, rather to be chosen 
than silver." 



292 ]VnSUl!O)EEST00D. 

" The highway of the upright is to depart from 

e^dl." 
" Better is he that riileth his spirit, than he that 

taketh a city." 

To get ' wisdom,' to get ' understanding : ' 
How fetv do get it, how mant/ refuse it ! 

How few can say from true hearts and trusting, 
" Thy word is a L^mp unto my feet " ! 

Take, for example, the subject which we 
Have but just considered, " love and lust ; " 

And tell me if in the Testament JVetv 

Ye find them confounded ; for I do mistrust 

Ye will not be able in any case, 

Or even mentioned except in contrast 

In any one chapter, in any one verse ; 
As light is to dark, so love is to lust. 

If then, brethren, ye have received this light, 

" Walk as children of light," 
"And the world passeth away, and the lust 
thereof : 
But he that doeth the will of God abide th 
forever.' 

" For ye were sometimes darkness. 
But now are ye light in the Lord : 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 293 

Walk as cliildren of liglit, 

Proving what is acceptable unto tlie Lord. 

And have no fellowship with the unfaithful 
Works of darkness, but rather reprove them. 
For it is a shame even to speak of those things 
Wliich are done of them in secret. 

But all things that are reproved are made 
3Ianifest by the light : for whatsoever doth 
Make manifest is light.''' Awake, thou that 
Slecpest, and Christ shall give thee light. 

It is said hy some that sin increaseth 

Upon this earth. Now this, my friends, is a 
mistake : 
Understandest thou what the Scripture saith ? 
It may be a ' shame ' of these tilings ' to 
speak ; ' 

But things that arc ' reproved are made man- 
ifest.'' 
Did Christ, our example, suffer shame for our 
sake? 
And shall we, his children, follow his behest ? 
Or shall we refuse, and tremblingly shrink 

From that which may bring reproach on our 
name ? 
Come, let us ' reason together,' and see, 



294 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

If we may, just how the earth has become 
More polluted by sin than in former day. 

It can not be by the sin of lust, 
As I think all who read the history 

Of the men of old — even the very best, 
" God's chosen ones" — can not fail to see. 

Not chosen hecause of their 'lust,' do I mean ; 

But, as I said before, their very best 
Were burthened Avith this terrible sin. 

Even those who professed in God a firm trust. 

They were chosen as ensamples because they ivere 
the best. 

And from these same came Christ our king. 
Father Abraham did at the Lord's command 

Leave his own native land, and go to Sichcm ; 

And dwelt in Canaan, the fair promised land, 
Unto him and his seed, which should be in 
numbers 

As the stars of heaven, and as dust — or sand, 
I hardly loiow which, or as much it matters. 

His wife was a fair woman to look upon ; 

And as he journeyed he called her his sister, 
Lest for her beauty the}' should kill him ; 

And the Lord plagued Pharaoh because of 
her. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 205 

" Now Sarai, Abram's wife, bare liim no child ; " 
And, slie being old, her faith had departed ; 

And so, foolish woman, she did pray Abram 
To go in unto her maid ; and Abram heark- 
ened. 

" And Abram Avas fourscore and six years old 
When Hagar bare Ishmael to Abram." 

And, when he was ninety and nine years old. 
The Lord established a covenant witli liim. 

" And God said unto Abraham, As for Sarai thy 

wife. 
Thou shalt not call her name Sarai, 
But Sarah shall her name be, and 
I will bless her, and give thee a son of her : 

Yea, I will bless her, and she shall be a mother 
Of nations ; kings of j^eople shall be of her. 

Then Abraham fell upon his face, and laughed, 
And said in his heart. Shall a child 

Be born unto him that is an hundred years old ? 
And shall Sarah that is ninety years old 
bear?" 
" And God said, Sarah thy wife shalt boar thee 
a son 
Indeed; and tliou shalt call his name Isaac. 



290 MISUNDKU'SrooD. 

l\Iy covcMiiiiit will I csliiblisli witli Isiuic, 
Wliifh Siir;ili sli;ill hear iiiilo Mico 

At this Hvt time next vfiir." 

'•'• '.riicrcroi'c Sai'ali laii<;iic(l wiliiin IicrscH"." 

^ And Ahraliaiii was an liiiiitlrcd'ycars old, 
VViuMi his son Isaiu; was hoiii iinlo him ; 

And Sai'ali said, (Jod halh hkkN' iiic (n laiiL;ii, 
So 111 at ill I tliiit hear will laii^di wilh iiir." 

JMow Aheahanrs wile, who was very lair, 
II(^ surely did love, as his ai'tioiis show. 

But, when slici was ^oius iui iiiai ricd KcturaJi 
Slid may havti hvvu fair: tlicy do not say. 

But, Avhclhcr or no, Im iieviM* did lov(i her, 
Or he sure would not Iiav(^ (rcalcd her so: 

While Sarah !i\('d, no eoiienhiiies wer(\ 
7\s wc can perceive, made a\ailal»le too. 

They al'terwards speak of his eoneuhines' sous, 
Keturah also did Ix^ar lor him six: 

Now, it S('(^ms to us, as his lile declines, 
IIo l^'ots ])retly loud of (he olhei- .sv.r. 

r>iit him wc will lea\'e, and Ixddf look up: 
"And Isaac was forly ycnirs old when he look 
Ivcheeca, 

To wilV'." '•'• And Isaac eiilrea(ed (In; Lord Idr 
His wife ( IJchecca ) hecaiise she was harreii : 



MI.SIINIU'WIM'I'ooD. 



21)7 



And (Ik) liortl vviiH (!iil.i'<'iii(Ml ol' liiiii." 

Is;i,;i(; vviiM Mir('('M(i(»r(i y(^!M'M oM vvIm'Ii rim \y,\\n 
hi III lAviiiM. 
IIIh Vvifo IiIho WII.H ' I'llir In lonk upon,' 

And pJiHScd Inr liin Hi;dcr, iiiiiny liiiicH, — 

LoHt, Hiiid lie, " iJir men n|" (lie, jiliMd :.li;iJI lull 
IIIO lor I{,<'.l)(!(;(ii;." 
Ill iJioHo diiyH, ily iicciiiM To li;iv<! Iiccn iiniiiiJo 
To lr;i.v<'l vvil.li ii, woiiiiin lli;ii vv!i;i I'liir, 

L(jsL lor JMtr jiciiiily lln'y iJionld liilu) (Jio 
iMiin'H lilr. 

And y<:l. Ili<;y idl did hcm'Mi To I<»V'; I»<:iiI, 
'I'lio /icd.iillfid vv()iii(;n liiir lo look upon : 

(II" l.licy ri'iilly Iciicvv f-o'/u-, wliicli I HotrKil-itriOH 
douhl.) 
MohI- of (Jiciri look iiudii/^ iliiilc;id ol' oni:. 

liiil: of iHiiiU', vv(; I'c.'ul no iiiiili lidicujoii;; lliin;';. 

I{,(;l)<!(;(;;i, ii.loiH! Hcciiicd lo tii,li;.ry liiiii ; 
And luiii. ol* illl oll|(;i;l do Uio ll('ripl,lir<;;i liiiijK 

I*'or onr ctiHionph; : IIk; iciiHoti iii jikiiii. 



" l>iil, llicy ;iif: WiA (ill. li'.rai'.l^ vviiif.li wvc of IhiukI : 
N(;il,ji(;r l)<!(;;iU;,(; liicy iii<'. Mio \,i:i-A of Alivdluiiii, 

An; (Jic.y ill] cliildicn : 

r.iil, in /H//ar; hIiuII tliy r^)i-A !»•! <;;i.ll(:d." 



208 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

" Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, 

x\re tlic cliiklren of promise ; 
But, as tlieu lie that was born after the flesh 

Persecuted him that was born after the 
sj)irit, — 

£ven so it is ncnv. 

Nevertheless what saith the scripture ? 
Cast out the bondwoman and her sou ; 

For the son of the bondwoman 

Shall not be heir with the son of the free- 
woman." 
What now of Jacob, whose name was Israel? 
And what of his children who are not all chil- 
dren ? 
Now, he was deceived by his own uncle: 

So we must have charity, nor blame him too 
much ; 
He might have done better had all been fair : 
But the sins of others do rest upon such. 

The effects of them, rather, though not to 
blame. 

" And Laban had two daughters : 

The name of the elder was Leah, 

And the name of the younger was Rachel. 

Leah was tender eyed ; 



MISUISDERSTOOD. 209 

But Rachel was beautiful and well-formed. 
And Jacob loved Rachel ; and said, — 
I will serve thee seven years 
Foi- Rachel thy younger daughter. 

And Laban said, It is better that 
I give her to thee, than that I should 
Give her to another man : abide with me. 
And Jacob served seven years for Rachel ; 

And they seemed unto him but a few days, 

For the love he had to her. 

And Jacob said unto Laban, — 

Give me my wife, for my days are fulfilled." 

" And Laban gathered together all the men of 
The place (I suspect the women were left ouf), 

and 
Made a feast ; and it came to pass in the evening, 
That he took Leah his daughter, and brought 

her to him ; 

And it came to pass, that in the morning. 
Behold, it was Leah ; and he said to Laban, 
What is this thou hast done unto me ? 
Did not I serve with thee for Rachel ? " 

" And Laban said. It must not be so done in 
Our country, to give the younger before the 
firstborn ; " 



300 INITSUNDETISTOOD. 

Ho was required to Avail a week 011I3', then tako 
Raehol to wife, and serve other years seven. 

" And lie loved also IJacliel more than Leah ; " 
This was the beoinning of contention and 
strife. 

If we can judge rightly, our poor sister I^ndi 
Little happiness found in her wedded life. 

" And, when the Lord saw that Leali was hated, 
He opened her Avoinh (but llachel was barren). 
And so unto Jacob she raised up scchI, 
And said thai, the Ijord her afllieliou had seen. 

" Now therefore my husband will hne me ; " 

And then she bare him other threi; sons. 

*' Now this time will my husband be joined unto 

me," 
She said with the third, because 1 have Ixn-ne 

him three sons. 

With the fourth she said, "Now Avill 1 ])raiso 

the Lord," 
And she called his name Jiidah.^^ 
Ivaehel envied her sister, and said unto Jacob, — 
Give me ehildi'en, or else 1 die; 

" And Jacob's anger was kindled against Rachel : 
And he said. Am I in God's stead. 



MIHIINDI'lltSroOD. 801 

Wlio llilXll willllirl.l fioiil l,lic(! Ilic IVdil, of (Jld 

womb y 
And she siiid, I5cIm)1<1 my miild I'.illiiili." 

So l'>illiii,li (lid lic:u' luiii I. wo HoiiH nior(!. 

" VVlicn, L(!iiJi s:iw l.liiiL sIk! Iiiid Idl, liciii'iii^;", 

Slu; look Ziljiidi li(;i- iiiiiid, ;md <;;i,v(; Iht (o -IjicoI) 

to wifi! ; " 
And Zilpiili did l)(:ir liiiii I, wo KOlis more 

And iifLcr ;i, (,ini<! Lc;di l)ii,r<! him I, wo inon; ; 
And she, siud, "• (Jod hiilh cndufMl hk; wilh ;i, 
(ilood dowfy : now will my hiislcind dwcJI wiUi 

jn(t, 
BecauRo I havo l)oni(! him hIx hoiih." 

Th(!ii lust of all Ifaclidl l);i,r(! liim ;i- Hon, 

Now thJM all hii.})j)(;n('d in jnHt those ycai'H 
roui't(!(!ii : 

(At least, we infer so from his j)ro))OKed retdin 
Tf) his native land and jilace of his, own.) 

His ehildreii now diil nnndicr elevftn ; 

A nol Ikt had Jtaehel, which in;ide np ( Ik; 1 1 ihe ; 
'i'heii Le;iji a dau()ldcr, they <H<1 Ihiid; lo men- 
tion, 
I'ooi' (hin;^! I pity her, wilh sneli a, triho 
(of hoy.H^. 
26 



802 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Now, Jacob lt)vod l\;iclu4 nnu'h boKor lliau 
Leah ; 
For that.AVC should Ihluk her sou avouIJ havo 
been ohoson, 
Through -whom shouhl conic the promised JNIcs- 
siali. 
But judge uot rashly ; hn- luivc wc uol sccu 

That Rachel was euvious, aud uot ovcrAvise, 
We thiuk Leah did make by far the best 
uiolhor, 

From what we can glcau by lier words so wise, 
Although less fair Ihau her younger sister: 

Now, as children are nmlded by ihc mother, 
Though love conjoined is a great essential. 

The Lord of two evils may have chosen the 
lesser. 
Taking the son of Ijcah, instead of RacheL 

"Behold, every one that useth proverbs 

Shall use this one against thee (mothers), say- 

i"gi — 
As is the mother, so is the (hii(<fh(er.'' 
Now Jacob, before he tiled, bk^ssed each of his 

sons, — 

Telling what should befall them in the last 

days. 
To Judah he saitli, Thou art he whom tliy 

brethren 



MISUNDEKSTOOD. 303 

Shall praise : thy hand shall be in the neck of 

thine 
Enemies : thy father's children shall bow down 

before thee. 

" Judah is a lion's whelp : 
From the prey, my son, thou art gone up. 
He stooped down, he crouched as a lion, 
And as an old lion : who shall rouse him up ? 

The scepter shall not depart from Judah, 
Nor a lawgiver between his feet. 
Until Shiloh come ; and unto him 
Shall the gathering of tlie people be. 

Binding his foal unto the vine. 
And his ass's colt unto the choice vine ; 
He washed his garments in wine. 
And liis clothes in the Ijlood of grapes. 

His eyes shall bo red with wine, 

And his teeth wliitc with milk." 

We think Judah did stoop down pretty low ; 

He did take a wife for his fn'st-})orn son, 

By the name of Taraar; but the Lord 
Did slay his son for his wickedness, — 
Not only his first, but also his second. 
Who did marry Tamar. To her father's house 



304 MISUNDEESTOOD. 

Judab tlieu bid her go, and wait till Shelali, 
His tliird son, be grown: in Lis heart he said, — 
" Lest peradventure he die also." 
Shelah grows up, but does not wed 

His brother's widow, as his father inferred. 
Tamar hears that Judah, her father-in-law, 
Goetli up to Timnath, unto his slicep-herd ; 
So what does she do but sit by the way, — 

(Where her father-in-law is sure to j)ass by), 
Attired as an harlot, a veil o'er her face ; 
And, as she premises, he stops by the way. 
And begs a great favor ; she grants it with grace. 

" He said, I will send thee a kid from the flock ; 
And she said, Wilt thou give me a pledge 
Till thou send it ? And he said, What pledge 
Shall I give thee ? And she said. Thy signet, — 

And thy bracelets, aiid thy staff that is in 
Thine hand ; and he gave it her." 
" And it came to pass about three months after. 
That it was told Judah, saying, — 

Tamar, thy daughter-in-law, hath played the 

harlot ; 
And also, behold, she is with child by whoredom. 
And Judah said. Bring her forth, and let her he 
Burnt. When she was brought forth,. — 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 305 

She sent to lier father-in-law, saying, — 

By the man whose these arc am I with child ; 

And she said. Discover, I pray thee, whose are 

these, — 
The signet, and bracelets, and stall. 

And Judah acknoAvledged tljem, and said, — 
She hath been more righteous tlian I ; 
Because that I gave her not to Shelah my son." 
The child that was born of this parentage 

Was one in tlie line from Abram to Christ. 

Now, if this was the best of soci(!ty then. 
What think you, my friends, must Jiave been 
the worst ? 

And do we here at the present time 

Have any that seems so very much worse ? 
Their ivomen were treated about like; their 
cattle : 
Yes, indeed, just bought and sold like merchan- 
dise. 
If they had a " fair face," it helped a little ; 

But tlien there was danger, i\iciv huHlandH might 
die 
Because of their beauty, a king would possess. 
Of women there did seem a full supply, 

If we judge by the wives of a man ; more or 
less. 

26* 



306 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

We never should luiow from whence they did 
come, 

As seldom the birth of a daughter we see 
Recorded here, only as wives do they seem 

Unto the men of importance to be. 

He was the head of the woman (^or Avomen), 
with a vengeance. 

Look at Judah, who the tooman tooidd hum. 
And all because of his own evil passions : 

He said, " Go to^ I pray thee let me come in." 

From that time they did seem to not progress 
much. 
Except in the ways of lust and of vice. 
Their deeds of darkness did come with a rush, 
While those that were good were indeed very 
scarce. 

Of ' King David,' Jesse's son, we have mucli to 
say. 

For he was the man " after God's own Iu\nt ; "' 
Though once he foolishly Avent astray, 

And did from the path of virtue depart. 

Now, if they had gone according to law. 
What would have become of poor King David ? 
" If a man be found lying Avith a Avoman mar- 
ried to 
An liusband, then they shall both ot" them die."' 



MrsiTNincusToon. 307 

But David was khuj : \w mi^lit slay iiis leu 
thousands, 
As his swoct singers prochiiuicd ;* Jnit ivho could 
touch lie ? 
NoAV, according to the Lord's counuands, 
ITo Avas anointed by Samuel a king to })c. 

"And it eanio to pass, avIkmi (hey were conic, 
That ho hjokcd on Eli;ih, and sitid, — 
Surely the I^ord's anoiided is bd'orc Iiiui. 
But the Lord said unto Samuel, — 

Look not on his countenance. 

Or on tlic Jiciglit ol." liis statiu'o ; 

Because I have refused lum, 

Vox- (lie LOIII) scclh not ;is iiiiiii se(;tli; 

For man looketh on the oukvard appearance, 

]3ut the Lord looketh on the heart. 

Then Jesse called Abiuadah, 

And mad(! him pass before Sauiuel; 

And he saith. Neither liiiili tlu; Lor'd (;hoscn this. 
Then Jesse made; SlianunaJi Ut ])ass by; 
And he said, Neith(;r liath tbe iiord c]ios(ui this. 
Agaui, Jesse made seven of his sous to p;iss by 
Samuel ; 

And Samuel said unto Jesse, The Lord hiiih 

not chosen tlies(!. 
And Samuel siiid unto Jesse, Are here; ;ill (iiy 

cliil(h(;u ? 



308 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

And he said, There remaineth yet the youngest, 
And, behokl, he keepeth the sheep. 

And Samuel said unto Jesse, Send and fetch him ; 
For we will not sit down till he come hither. 
And he sent and brought him in. 
Now he was ruddy, and, withal, — 

Of a beautiful countenance, and goodly to look 

to ; 
And the Lord said. Arise, anoint him ; for this 

is he. 
Then Samuel took the horn of oil, 
And anointed him in the midst of his brethren ; 

And the Spirit of the Lord came upon David 

From that day forward." 

" And David behaved himself wisely in all his 

ways ; " 
" All Israel and Judah loved David, — 

Because he went out and came in before them." 

" And the soul of Jonathan was knit 

With the soul of David, 

And Jonathan loved him as his own soul." 

But even holy David had more than one wife : 
We read of Michal, and we read of Abigail, 



MISUNDEESTOOD. 309 

We read of his passion which brought sorrow 
and strife, 
And because he did look on a woman so beau- 
tiful. 

" And it came to pass in an evening tide, 
That David arose from off his bed. 
And walked upon the roof of the king's house ; 
And from the roof he saw a woman washiug 
herself ; 

And the woman was very beautiful to look 

upon ; 
And David sent and inquired after the woman, 
(And found she was the tvife of Uriah the 

Hittite) 
And David sent messengers, and took her ; 

And she came in unto him, and he lay with 

her." 
How true it is that one sin begetteth another ! 
What was to be done with Uriah, the husband 

of Bathsheba? 
David beguiles him, gets him drunk, — 

And thus keeps him from going to his own 

home ; 
" And it came to pass in the morning, 
That David wrote a letter to Joab, 
And sent it by the hand of Uriah ; 



310 MISUNPEESTOOD. 

And lie wrote in the letter, sajdng, — 

Set ye Uriah in the forefront of the hottest 

battle, 
And retire ye from him, 
That he may be smitten, and die." 

" And the messenger said unto David," — 

"• The shooters shot from off of the wall upon 

thy servants ; 
And some of the king's servants be dead, 
And thy servant Uriah the Hittite is dead also." 

" And, when the wife of Uriah 

Heard that Uriah her husband was dead, 

She mourned for her husband ; 

And, when the mourning was past, — 

David sent and fetched her to his house ; 
And she became his wife, and bore him a son. 
But the thing that David had done 
Displeased the Lord. 

And the Lord sent Nathan unto David ; 
And he came unto him, and said unto him, — 
There were two men in a city ; 
The one rich, and the other poor. • 

The ricli man had exceeding many flocks and 

herds, 
But the poor man had nothing 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 311 

Save one little ewe lamb, 

Which ho had houglit and nourished np, — 

And it grew up together with him, 
And with his children ; 
It did eat of his own meat, 
And drink of liis own cup, — 

And lay in liis ])osora, 

And was unto him as a daughter. 

And there came a traveller unto the i-icli man ; 

And he spared to take of his own (lock 

And of his own herd, to dress for the 
Wayfaring man that was come unto him ; 
But took the poor man's huulj, 
And dressed it for the man that was come to 
him. 

And David's anger was greatly kindled 
Against the man; and he said to Nathan, — 
As the Lord liveth, 
The man that hath done tliis sliall surely die : 

And he shall restore the lamb fourfold, 
Because he did this thing, and because he 
Had no pity. And Nathan said unto David, — 
Thou art the man.'''' 



812 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

" And David said unto Nathan, — 
I have sinned against the Lord. 
And Nathan said unto David, — 
The Lord also hath put away thy sin ; 

Thou shalt not die. Because by this thy deed 
Thou hast given great occasion to the 
Enemies of the Lord to blaspheme, 
The child also that is born of thee shall surely 
die." 

" And the Lord struck the child that 
Uriah's wife bare unto David, 
And it was very sick." " And it came to pass, 
On the seventh day, the child died." 

" And David comforted Bathsheba his wife : 
She bare him a son, and she called his name 
Solomon ; and the Lord loved him." 
" And God gave Solomon wisdom 

And understanding exceeding much, 
And largeness of heart even as 
The sand that is on the seashore." 
"And he spake three thousand proverbs: 

And his soncfs were a thousand and five." 
" And there came of all people 
To hear the wisdom of Solomon, 
From all kings of the earth 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 313 

Which had heard of his wisdom ; " 

" And, when the Queen of Shcba heard of the 

fame of 
Solomon, she came to prove him with hard 

questions ; 
And Solomon told her all her questions : " 

" And she said to the king, It was a true leport 
That I heard in mine own land, 
Of thy acts and of thy wisdom. 
Howbeit, I believed not the words, — 

Until I came, and mine eyes had seen it : 
And, behold, the half was not told me : 
Thy wisdom and prosperity exceedeth 
The fame which I heard. 

Happy are thy men, happy are these thy ser- 
vants 
Which stand continually before thee, 
And that hear thy wisdom. 
Which God hath put in thine heart." 

" But King Solomon loved many strange women^'* 
" Of the nations concerning which the 
Lord said unto the children of Israel, — 
Ye shall not go in to them ; 

Neither shall they come in unto you : 
For surely they will turn away your heart 

27 



814 IMlSUNDMICSI'Oon. 

Aflcr ol luM" <;()(ls : Soloiiioii cIiin c iiiilo lliosc in 

l()V(^. 

(I Wdiidcr if his hau-t \v:im alTiu'lcd). 

jAikI III' liiul sriu'v. hiiiith'tu/, wives, ])imii(hissos, 

And \\o liiul (Iircc hioKfrcd auwwlnwv^ ; 

And his wives l-iii'iu'd ;i\v;iy liis hcail, 

V()v i(. caiiic ((» ]);iss, when Soioiiioii was old, — 

Thjit his wivi>s In rued away iiis hear!, aflcr 

ol h(M' _i;'ods : 
And liis hear!, was jioI. jxmTccI w i( Ii llic Loid 

his ( lod, 
As was (lu) lu^arl, of David his rallici/' 
*' And Uio Lord was iiii_i;'iy wKU SoU)nu)u 

Bocjauso his lioai'l, was ( iirnod 

From (h(^ liord (h)d ot' Isracd, 

Wliich had appcarcMl unlo him (wife. 

And had commanth'd liini concerning (his Miinij^ ; 

TliaL h(i shoidd no(; ;;"o aflcn- olhci" j^'ods. 

l>nl. he i^cpl. nol. liiai whicli lh(^ liord coni- 

man(h>(l, 
WhcM'cnpon Mm Lord said nnio Soh>m(m, — 
FornsiniK'h as I his is dont; of Ihce, — 

And (lion hasL not i<c|)(. my covcnand and my 
Slatulcs, which I hav(M'onunan(h'd I he(^, 



MIHUNDKUHIOOI). 'MTt 

J will Hiirrl// Ti'iid ilif kiiii/iloDi, J'nnii, I luti-^ 
Ami I will j!;iv<! il, lo (liy HcrviiiiL 

N(il,vvilJi:.l..i.ii<lin;^ in lluj ilai/n I will iiol, <l<) \\. 
V\n- l>aviil, ill,!/ J'alJu'.rH mkc : 
Iiiil, I will i(!ii<I il/ Old of llhi- lutml, of till/ Him: 
Jlowhcit, I will iiol, icikI ;i,w.'i,y <dl iJio j{i;i),((|(»ir) ; 

I'lil, I will ^iv<J <rnii Lrihii l,o (,liy mom 
I' oi- bav'ul mil HiiTvanCH nalat^ iunJ lor 
.J(!ruHiiU!rri'H H.'ikc wliicli I li;i,v<! <!|ioh<!m." 
To .|(;lol;o;iiii, Uinii i;;i,ilJi I. lie, Loi'l I.Ik; i'mA of 
IhiucI : — 

" lifJiol'l, I will icimI III'; l:iii;'<|(Hii oiil, ol" (,l)<i 

ll.'UI'l of 

SoloinoM, ;i,n(l I will j^m'vo t<:(i lril)(;;< l,o Uico : 
ilowh(;it,, I will /lol. \m\'.(; I, Ik; wliol<; k in;';(lo;;i owl 

of iiiii liiUid : 
I'nl, 1 will )n;i,k<; liiln pi in'.<; ;ill IIm; rj;i,yii (,[' |ii:i 

lil'.;, - 

l''or i>;j,vi'J iny H<;rv:i-nl/H h;iI<<; wIio/ji J li;i,v<; 

cIlOHCIl 

JiccanHO ho Koply juy coinfniJ,n<ltn<;f)f,H itii'J 

My HtatutoH. iiuly I will l;i,k<; Uk; kinj^'lom oul, 

of lliH 
Som'h })UfjfJ, and I will give il- UOlo l,li(;<;, <;V<;IJ 

l';n IrihoH. 



316 MISUiTDEESTOOD. 

And unto his son will I give one tribe, 
That David my servant may have a light 
Alway be/ore him in Jerusalem, the city 
Which I have chosen me to put my name there. 

And I will take thee, and thou shalt reign 
According to all that thy soul desiretli, 
And shalt be king over Israel. 
And it shall be, if thou wilt hearken 

Unto all that I command thee, 

And will walk in my ways, 

And do that is right in my sight, 

To keep my statutes, and my commandments, — 

As David my servant did; 
That I will be with thee. 
And build for thee a sure house, as 
I built for David, and will give Israel unto 
thee. 

And I will for this ajflict the soul of David^ 
But not forever. Solomon sought therefore to 

kill 
Jeroboam." And the time that Solomon 

reigned in 
Jerusalem over all Israel was forty years. 

And now, my friends, for your candid opinion : 
How does the earth at present compare 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 317 

With the very best of the old dominion ? 
Woukl jOLi be willmg with them to share 

Hardships and trials for righteousness' sake 
Those "head-lights" I mean, for such they 
were, 

God's chosen ones, who alone did partake 
In the wisdom and knowledge ever sure. 

Surrounded as they were by sore temptations. 
And living in the midst of a lawless 

And fearfully perverse generation, 

We think it a wonder they were not even v.orse 

Than we from past records find them to have 
been; 
To be sure, we have traced but one crying 
sin ; 
If it is not the worst, we think it the one 
The hardest, perhaps, for them to restrain 

In their then low, rough, undeveloped state. 
Of their murders, drunkenness, anger, wrath, 
strife. 
And such like things, time would fail me to 
relate ; 
Their whole lives did seem with contentions 
rife ; 

27* 



318 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

"Wars and rumors of wars continually : 

Who, that did not live very near to his God, 

Could endure ^uch an atmosphere, or fully. 
Even then, resist the influences bad ? 

I think we have shown that only one wife 

Was approved of the Lord, from the very first ; 

Our dear Saviour's gospel also accordeth 
thereto : 

" A bishop, then, must be blameless, the hus- 
band of one wife, — 

" One that ruleth well his own house." 

" Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, 

Ruling their children and their own houses 

well." 
" For I am jealous over you with a godl}^ 

jealousy : 

For I have espoused you to an husband. 

That I may present you as a chaste virgin to 

Clu-ist ; " 
" For God hath not given us the spirit of fear, 
But of power, and of love, and of a sound 

mind." 

Now, my friends, we might Avith proj)riety 
Consider just bricfl\', "Who is thine hus- 
band?" 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 319 

By tlie law iind prescrilxid rules of society, 
'Tis no hard matter ; but are they valid? 

" So ought men to love tlieir wives as their own 
Bodies : he that loveth his wife loveth himself ; 
For no man ever yet hated his own flesh, 
But nourisheth it and cherishetli it." 

"Likewise, yo husbands, dwell with them ac- 
cording to knowledge. 

Giving honor unto the wife, as unto the weaker 
vessel. 

And as being heirs together of the grace of life ; 

That your prayers be not hindered." 

" Wives, submit y(mrselves unto your own 
Husbands as unto the LordJ''' 
"Neither is the man without the woman, 
Neither is the woman without the man, in the 
Lordr 

" But the woman is the glory of the man." 
" But, as the woman is of the man, 
Even so is the man also by the woman ; 
But all thinfjs of God.'''' 

1 do not feel to say much upon this subject ; 

Nevertheless it is one of the greatest moment 
To yourselves, to your race ; it will reflect 

Either the sunshine of love and content 



320 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Upon your posterity yet unborn ; 

Or else the stigma of lust and vice. 
We have, if we mistake not, clearly shown 

The lack of pure love in those early days. 

They possessed no knowledge of the same ; 

Their finer sensibilities lay dormant ; 
It is somewhat so, I fear, with some 

Even now. These will doubtless this resent. 

But, thank God ! we are not all asleep ; 

The " daystar of lioj)e " has arisen : 
We can only now through the curtains peep, 

But by and by the glorious heaven 

Will be revealed in all its splendor. 

Happy are ye who are " truly married : " 
Your love shall grow stronger, your joys 
brighter. 

Your path in life may be rough, and 

Friends may prove false, hearts may deceive 
you ; 
But if in the Lord you do put your trust. 
And if the one other prove loving and true. 
All's well ; " together " you can " bide the 
blast." 

The only incentive to marry should be love^ 
True love : yes, friends, for " It is to be feared 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 321 

That tliose who marry where they do not love 
Will love where they do not marryT 

Now, an inspired prophet once did write, — 
" For thy Maker is thine husband : " 

A modern one (inspired, we think) doth write, — 
" God, and not Avoman, is the head of all." 

When all have learned to recognize this truth. 
The true marriage will have been established. 

St. Paul need preach no more unto the earth 
Concerning marriage ; 'twill be abolished 

When he that is married careth more for the 
things 
" That belong to the Lord" than for those 
Which belong to his tvife^ and when the wife 
Careth more for the tilings which " please the 
Lord " 

Than for the things which may "please her 
husha7idy 
When both become " holy in body and in 
spirit," 
These things will strengthen the sacred bond : 
They will need no laiu to bind them to it : 

" For fair knowledge would multipl}^ like life ; 
And two dear souls that see one truth, and, 
turning, 



322 



MISUNDEU STOOD, 



Also see each other's face glow in that truth's 
light, 
Are somctJung inore than lovers.'''' 

" Jesus saith unto her, Go, 

Call thy husbaml, and coino hither: 

The woman answered and said, — 

I have no husband. Jesus said uiilo li(>r, — 

Thou liast woll said, 1 have no liusbaiid; 
For thou hast had live husbands ; 
And he whom thou now hast is not thy hus- 
band : 
In that saidst thou trld3^" 

"rit\i(l with your mother, ph'ad : 

For slio is not my wife, neither am T licr luis- 

baiid: 
Let her tliereforc put away licr Avliorodoms out 

of her sight, 
And her adulteries from between hor breasts." 



Friends, it gives mo pain to write, or cvimi tliink, 

Of tlie nnhappiness and misery 
Entailed upon those who only drink 

From tlie hitter fountain ol" mati'iinoiiy ; 

Those who are joined in name and by hur^ 
While their hearts are ever so wide apart. 



MISIINhMIM'/I'dOl). 



82f3 



Know yd not it is a Kin in bcslovv 

Yotn- liiind, yonv Ixxlij^ yotir LIKIC, vvil lionl. your 
Jfrnrt ? 



May (iti(l liclj) you :iii(| deliver yon ! 

May lio ^ivn yon Mi:ii iir(! J'rr(\ nndcrsl.'inding 

IlCill'IS, 

And liclp yon (,o \n\ \\\\U) •ijoiinichwH Irnc, 
Avoiding iirvU Siitan'H moMl. Mlcillliy djii'l.H, — 

'I'li.'d. yon j^ivo n(»l, ever, never, oh I never, 

Yonr lidiiil wiMioid, yonr hcarl^ your ///''• willi- 

(Mlt A//>C, 

And, yo that .'i.r(! hound, llhiw IioikIh ijc muni 
sever ; 
It is tlie. will «•(' thy I'^iitlier Jihovo. 

MotliinkH I hoar- ex(;l!iiuid-iotiH of Hnrpriwo, 
With loolcH fd' !un;i//,enient and wondcsr ; 

Saying-, VVhiit will yon h.'ivo nw do with tluH? — 
" What, tliend'oj'f), (jjod h.'dh joined to- 
gothor, — 

Let not ni;ui pid, .'isnnrlcr." 

If yon Jivo Jii peaw^ Imrmonj/^ and r,ovi;, 
Tliorc's no oooaHJon to bo jnit a-Hiindor : 

The marriago in Hfund/ifniod hy (iod ;d)ovr!. 

If yf! live in e,onlerd,ion ;ind i.trife, 

Having (!;i,e,h ("or other no love in your he;irt, 



324 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

God has had nothing to do with your married 
life : 
If him yon wonld please, you surely must 
part. 

Again he will say, Then how with this ? — 
" Whosoever shall put awaj?- his wife, 

Saving for the cause of fornication, 
Causeth her to commit adultery : 

And whosoever shall marry her 

That is divorced committeth adultery." 

I shall answer this question by asking another, — 
What is fornication ? What is adultery ? 

From whence do they come ? " For out of the 
heart 

Proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries^ per- 
secutions. 

Whoever looketh on a woman to lust after her 

Until committed adultery with her already in his 
hearty 

" For from within, out of the heart of men, 
Proceed evil thoughts, adidteries, fornications ; " 
jNIarriage is honorable in all, and the bed unde- 

fded, 
But whoremongers and adulterers God will 

judge." 



MISTJNDEESTOOD. 325 

What meaneth this ? the marriage-bed undefilcd ? 

My friends, I take great liberty of speech ; 
But I do believe, if the ranks were filed, 

There is of adultery fully as much 

In the holy (!) estate of matrimony 

As there is outside. Ye do err from the truth 

When ye place men^ and men-made laios^ 
Before your God who judges the heart. 

" Thou that saycst a man should not commit 

Adultery, dost thou commit adultery ? " 

" For, wherein thou judgest another, thou con- 

demnest 
Thyself ; for thou that judgest doest the same 

things." 

" Ye are they which justify yourselves before 
men ; 

But Grod laioiveth your heart ; 
For that which is highly esteemed among men 

Is abomination in the sight of God."'' 

When a man hath taken a wife, and married her, 
And it come to pass that she fnid no fa^^or in 

his eyes. 
Let hini write her a bill of divorcement, and 

give 
It in her hand, and send her out of his house." 

28 



326 MISUNDEKSTOOD. 

Beliolcl ! there are two great evils upon earth, 
And ye that are free may avoid both ones, 

"While ye that are bound by the folly of youth 
Must of the two choose the lesser one. 

It is better to turn from the waj^s of sin, 
Than still to go on just " living a lie." 

For, if your love and affection be gone, 
You can not live truly, 'tis u,;eless to try. 

" Woe unto you, ye blind guides, which say, 
Whosoever shall swear by the temple, it is 

nothing ; 
But whosoever shall swear by the gold of the 

temple. 
He is a debtor. Ye fools and blind ! for which 

is greater, — 

The gold, or the teonjjle that sanctifieth the 

gold ? " 
" What ! know ye not that yoiu' bodg 
Is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, 
Which ye have of God, and je are not your 

own ? " 

" Every sin that a man doeth is without the 

body ; 
But he that committeth fornication sinneth 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 327 

Against his own body." " Ye blind guides, 

■wliich 
Strain at a gnat, and swallow a camel." 

" What shall we say, then ? is the law sin ? God 
forbid ! " 

" Think not that I am come to destroy the law 
or the 

Prophets : I am not come to destroy, but to ful- 
fill." 

Then one which was a lawyer 

Asked him a question, tempting him, and saying, 
" Master, which is the great commandment in 

the law ? 
Jesus said unto him. Thou shalt love the 
Lord thy God with all thy heart — 

And with all thy soul, and with all thy mind ; 
This is the first and great commandment. 
And the second is like unto it, — 
Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. 

On these two commandments hang all the law 
and 

The prophets." " And upon this rock I will 
build my church ; 

And the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. 

And I will give unto thee the keys of the king- 
dom of heaven." 



328 MISUNDEESTOOD. 

" "Wherefore the hxw is holy, and the 
Coininandmeiit holy and just and good." 
" The law being a shadotv of good things to come, 
And not the vert/ image of the things." 

" For the Jaw made nothing perfect, 

But the bringing-in of a better hope did ; 

By the which we draw nigh unto God." 

" Do we, then, make void the law through faith ? 

God forbid ; yea, we establish the law." 

" But, vrheii faith came, we were kept under the 

law. 
Shut up unto the faith which should afterwards 

be 
Revealed." " Did not Moses give you a law ? 

And yet none of you keepeth the law." 

" Who have received the law of the disposition 

Of angels, and have not kept it." 

" The law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto 

Christ, that we might be justified by faith. 
But, after that faith is come^ 
We are no longer under a schoolmaster." 
" For ye are all one in Christ Jesus." 

" For the law of the spirit of life in Christ Jesus 
Hath made me free fi'om the law of sin and death. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 329 

Tliero is therefore no condemnation 
To tlieni wliicli are in Christ Jesus. 

Who walk not after the flesh, 
But after the Spirit." 
" If we live in the Spirit, 
Let lis also walk in the Spirit." 

" There is one lawgiver who is able to save and 
To destroy." " Bear ye one another's burdens, 
And so fulfill the law of Christ." 
" So sj)eak ye, and so do 3'e, as they 

That shall be judged by the law of liberty." 
" For, brethren, we have been called unto liberty." 
" Stand fast therefore in the liberty 
Wherein Christ hath made us free." 

" Give ear, O my people, to my law : 

Incline your ears to the words of my mouth." 

" The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the 

soul ; 
The testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise 

the simple." 

" I delight to do thy will, O my God : 
Yea, thy law is written in my heart." 
" Blessed is the man whom thou chastenest. 
Lord, and teachest him out of thy law." 



330 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

" Blessed are the miclefiled in the wfty, 
Who walk ill the law of the Lord." 
" Open thou mine eyes, that I may 
Behold wondrous things out of thy law." 

" Remove from me the way of 13'ing : 

And grant me thy law graciously." 

" Give me understanding, and I shall keep thy 

law, 
Yea, I shall show it with my whole heart." 

" So shall I keep thy law continually for ever 
and ever. 

And I will walk at liberty,, for I seek thy pre- 
cepts." 

" The proud have had me greatly in derision ; 

Yet I have not declined from thy law." 

" I have remembered thy name, O Lord, 
In the night, and have kept thy law." 
" The hands of the wicked have robbed me, 
But I have not forgotten thy law." 

" Their heart is fat as grease ; 

But I delight in thy law. 

It is good for me that I have been afflicted, 

That I might learn thy statutes. 

The law of thy mouth is better unto me 
Than thousands of gold and silver." 



MISUKDEESTOOD. 331 

" Let thy tender mercies come unto me, 
Tliat I may live ; for tliy law is my delight." 

" The proud have digged pits for me, 

Which are not after thy law." 

" Oh, how I love thy law ! 

It is my meditation all the day." 

" My soul is continually in my hand : 
Yet do I not forget thy law." 
" I hate vain thoughts : 
But thy law do I love." 

" It is time for thee, Lord, to work ; 
For they have made void thy law." 
" Rivers of waters run doAvn mine eyes. 
Because they keep not thy law." 

" Thy righteousness is an everlasting right- 
eousness. 
And thy law is the truth." 
" They draw nigh that follow after mischief: 
They are far, from thy law." 

" Great peace have they which love thy law : 
And nothing shall offend them." 
" This I say, then, walk in the Spirit ; " 
"If ye be led by the Spirit, ye are not under 
the law." 



332 MISUNDEKSTOOD. 

" Wherefore, then, serveth the law ? 
It was added becau!-:e of transgression, 
Till the seed should come 
To Avhom the promise Avas made." 

" But, that no man is jusLified by the law 
In the sight of God, it is evident : 
For the just shall live by failh. 
And the law is not of faith." 

" But we know that the law is good 
If a man use it lawfully ; knowing this, 
That the law is not made for a righteous man. 
But for the lawless and disobedient, — 

For llic ungodly, and for sinners," 

" This only would I learn of you : 

Keceived 3'e the spirit by the works of the law, 

Or by the hearing of faith? " 

"For when the Gentiles, which have not (he law, 
Do by nature the things contained in the law ; 
These, having not the law, are a law unto 

themselves, 
Which show the work of the law written in 

their hearts." 

' Are a la/r unto tJionsehcs.^ Yes, my friends. 
And the time approaches, Avhen man-made laws 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 333 

Sluillbc among the things that were : kind friends, 
Believe me. I indulge in prophecies 

Very seldom, but " your sin hath found you out, 
(The people are also getting their eyes open), 
And as many as have sinned in the law 
Shall ha judged hy the laiu.''^ 

Paul had no patience with 'your law,' nor have 

we ; 
" But if it is a question of words and money. 
And of your law, look ye to it. 
For J will be no judge of such matters." 

" Then said Paul unto him, — 
God shall smite thee, thou whitcd wall ; 
For sittest thou to judge me after the ?aw. 
And condcmnest me to be smitten contrary to 
the law ? " 

But brother with brother gocth to law. 

Hear the advice St. Paul gave then, would 
give 71010 : — 
" If any man will sue thee at the law. 

And take away thy coat, lot him have thy 
cloak also." 

Yes, indeed ; and if ye do come out thence, 
Until you have paid the "uttermost farthing," 



334 MISUNDEESTOOD. 

Thank — not the laivycrs^ but pray for more 
grace, 
To keep you in future from any such thing. 

" Avoid foolish questions and genealogies, 
And contentions, and strivings about the law ; 

For they arc unprofitable and vain," 

This said our brother St. Paul : and also 

Some " have turned aside unto vain jangling, 
Desiring to be teachers of the law ; 

Understanding neither what they say, 
Nor whereof they affirm." 

I am not a lawyer, thank the Lord ! 

Though I know full well it " might have 
been." 
They coaxed and flattered, and tried mighty hard 
To " bring me to terms : " they said I would 
win 

The brightest of laurels ; and glory and fame 
I soon should achieve by my talent and wit. 

Now listen, my friends, and see if you me blame: 
I went to my Bible, was guided by it. 

At first I did think they'd forgotten to speak 

Of this professional gentleman. 
But found I labored under a mistake; 

For, after a little, I found his name 



MISUNDEESTOOD. 335 

Well, five or six times, I sliould say, in all. 

And what do you think ? twice he was shown 
Tempting our iorc?and Master ; think j'ou he fell. 

Or that the Imvyer has since wiser grown ? 

Well, the next passage I turned to was this : — 
" And the Pharisees and lawyers 
Rejected the counsel of God against themselves." 
Next comes the reproof of our Master Christ : — 

" And he said. Woe unto you also, ye Imcycrs ! 
For ye lade men with burdens 
Grievous to be borne, and ye yourselves 
Touch not the burdens with oi-he of your fnu/ersy 

What think ye of this? "Woe unto you, law- 
yers ! 
For ye have taken away the key of knowk-dgc : 
Ye entered not in yourselves^ 
And them that ivere entering in ye hindered.'''' 

I closed the book, and said, " ' It is enough.' 
' My heart is fixed ; ' whatever else I do, 

Be my passage rough, or be it smooth, 
I never can, I never wz7^, a laivyer be." 

If now I dwelt upon the earth, perhaps 
I might consider the matter, because 

There are so many mean, villainous trajos, 
I would bring to light, and help to expose. 



336 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

The time will comc^ believe ye it, or not, 
When " Tlic whole creation of God has 

Neither nook nor corner where the mnrclerer 
Can bestow his secret, and say it is safe." 

Why ? becanse angels from heaven above, 
Through " household angejs " wlio dwell 
below. 

Will reveal, because of the innocent they love. 
The secret ; exposing thus, the dastardly foe : 

Thousands already have done this same thing. 

I speak of this now as a warning to you, 
My dear young men, avIio may be thinking 

Of spending your time in studying law. 

I should advise you now, as a frientl, wliich I am, 
To endeavor to find something better to do ; 

For can not you see, when those days do comcy 
Lawyers will find precious little to do ? 

Ye already have many more than ye need ; 

The surplus might better be earning their bread 
By tilling the soil, and sowing good seed : 

Human hearts^ the soil ; theii' culture^ your 
bread. 

As I said before, if I now lived on earth, 
And if I did become a lawyer. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 387 

(I am bettor prepared than in my youili, 

I liavc, through suffering, grown much 
stronger), — 

I would endeavor to give to tlic world 

One honest Imvyer^ though ])oor lie must l»c: 

It would never do with silver and gold 
To entice a lawyer, not even me ; 

If the rich who arc not lawyers 

Can scarce enter in to the kingdom of love, 
What must be the fate of those same I'ich laimjers 

Who rob poor widows, and otlierwise strive 

Themselves to enrich, at the expense of the poor ? 

There are two things which may be little on 
earth ; 
Not so in heaven : I would ope the door, 

And expose to view the latv in its dearth^ — 

J^^s})ecial]y as relating to woman ; 

tSiic has no power of herself to help herself; 
The power rests, be he good or bad, with the man 

l^^ntirely: she may not even coiitrol heraelf^ — 

Wax lyerson^ I mean, if she hath an husb;iiid; 

ller duty by law is just to suhmit 
To whatever indignity that husband 

May wisely or umvisely, see fit 

29 



838 MlSUNI)KKSr(1(1D, 

To imj'tose ; he has " rights." She not any ; 

She is sim]ily liis servant, "for in Jaw 
Her time and her hibor, as avcII as her money, 

Are his property.'''' What need for her to hnirn 

Aught outside the "domestic circle? " 

She serves his end better, the less she knoivs : 

" All! my dear wife, /will fight the battle. 
While you, precious one, shall but take your 
ease." 

Ease indeed ! six small children, one at the breast ; 

Sometimes a servant, oftener not any ; 
Days full of labor, and nights of unrest ; 

Her joys they are few, her cares quite too many. 

If to her husband she should prove untrue 
(Not much danger), "he may have her im- 
prisoned 

From two to five years, or, if he do choose, 
Turn her out of doors; he's no longer bound 

' For her support,' may get a divorce, 
In fact, do whatever it doth him please." 

" If the husband, on the other hand, is 
Inconstant, he can only be punished 

By a fine of seven dollars, or 

By thirty days imprisonment injail.''^ 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 339 

In '.?V<//,' iniiid you, foi* no prisun haim 

Shall (liirkcn tlio li^iiL of his ])iirc (!) soul. 

Suppose they hulk should prove them untrue : 
The very same day, she^ poor thing, by law^ 

To State's Prison may bo made to go ; 
And there, for years, pine her life away ; 

While her husband has only to just pass over 
" Seven dollars " his tvife has ludpcd him to earn. 

He can retain his home., and live in clover : 
If so li(i do please, may many again. 

And where are the children, if any there be? 
Ah, sir! pr(!oisely wluire — yon cUooHe to place 
tUeiu ; 
Tlieir mother^ without your consent, may not 
them .svjt'. 
Neither may know what has become of them. 

"That beautifid rcilation, that 'motherhood,' 
Upon which has been built so much 

Of the rhetoric of the modern advocates 
Of woman's subjection, seems to have been 

Overlooked by our law-makers in thcur 
Desire to secure the al)Solute authority 

Of the husband and father. It is 

A tie that he can break at Dleasure, — 



340 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

And which, after his death, 

Is completely at the mercy 
Of the testamentary guardian, 

And of the judge of probate." 

How about property ? If the husband die, 
The heart-broken Avifc may retain a third 

Of their estate and personal property, 

(Excuse me, the use of it, I should have said), 

Provided the husband shall have made no "ivill; 

But if he has, which is often the case. 
You're almost sure to find a ' codicil ' 

Attached unto it, and containing this, — 

" Onli/ so long as she remains tut/ widow ; " 
Alas ! alas ! If they owned a farm. 

It must be cut in pieces, to get at the ' third.' 
The dwelling becomes a place of alann 

To a soul refined: lias a woman, then, feeling? 

Often at such times she ivishes she had none; 
The house is crowded, and there's no telling 

What onai/ be done, or what may 7iot be done ; 

Of course they Avill act according to lau\ 

But Avhat knows she of that ? He rules the tribe ; 

The appraisers, of course, will have their say, 
And by their decision she must abide. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 341 

They iiiuy wiesl, from lic3r that she most highly 
do 111 prize ; 
The auctioneer's hammer goes down with a 
crash, 
Going, going, gone ! she raises her eyes : 

She might have bought it, but she has no cash. 

The scene now changes : the wife has departed ; 

The liusband retains in his possession 
All of their proi)crty. Is it divided? 

Oh, no ! of course not : that would be mean. 

Jlc can control it so long as he live.-; (on earth) : 
Left she a will ? I don't know : I think not ; 

Women seldom do ; and, while the man lives. 
They're of no great use: they don''t take effect. 

The personal property, what of it ? 

Oh, that is not disturbed, unless, perchance. 
It is some few things her father bought, 

They won't disturb these if they have good 
sense. 

So the husband goes on all things the same. 
Gets a housekeeper (must have his dinner). 

And very likely, in quite a short time. 

Gets another " helpmeet " or "• breadwinner." 

Now, these are the laws in a civilized land; 
What have you to say ? " Oh, they are not 
enforced." 29* 



342 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Thank Ood ihoy arc not! lioavon would counter- 
■iiiaii(l, 
li" llicy w(!rc. I»iit ilicii, if they're not en- 
iorc.<;(l, — 

What's the, use of liavln;) ihcin ? Wliy, just tliis, 
To enrich your purse, to debase your soul ; 

If the laiv is for the weak^ why refuse 

The aid they so much need ? Am I a fool ? 

God knows just how your hiws protect them, 
If lawyers don't. Oil, well, " it won't be 
]ont^' : " 

Ye Avill not always be cryint^ to them, — 

" Hold ! for iltou art weak, and /am strong." 

I ask not for ivoman one single " right " 
More than is accorded unto the man ; 

1 do ask equalitii ; and in God's sight 
It is jiisl. He Avho created woman 

Oj'daincMl that she should bear the children; 

And, b(!cause (jF that, must she also bear 
Every other burden ? No, thank Heaven! 

She has something much better in store. 

Our Saviour did Uiixcr roiuK'nui a woman; 
He did often icbukc conccilcd men; 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 343 

" Seest tliou thi« woman? I entered into thine 

house, 
Thou gavest me no water for my icet : 

But nhe liath washed my feet with tears, 
And wip(!d them with the hairs of her head. 
Thou gavest me no kiss : but tliis ivoman, since 
Tlie time I came in, hath not ceased to kiss my 
feet. 

My head Vv'ith oil thou didst not anoint; Init 

this 
Woman hath anointed my feet with ointment. 
Wherefore I say unto thee, her sins, whicli are 
Many, are forgiven ; for she loved much. 

liut, to wliom little is forgiven, the same loveth 
Little. And lie said unto her, Tliy sins are for- 
given." 
"And he said to the woman, Thy faith 
llath saved thee; go in peace." 

Spiritually, morally, we claim that woman 
Is superior to man ; her virtue tells. 
" For this cause ought the woman to have 
I'ower on her head because of the angels.' 

You will, doubtless, my friends, now call to mind 
Some opposing text of our l>rother Paul ; 



344 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

For lie, 1 iickiiowledge, was quite iueliued 
To depreciate the sex ; perhaps, after all, — 

'Twas only through ignorance on hij part ; 

"We presiune he knew very little of woman ; 
She had never captivated his heart, 

As we can learn ; as for wife, he had none. 

Nor did he advise connubial bliss 

Except as subterfuge from something worse ; 
Beside, since his day has been much progress 

In spite of your laios which ye dare not en- 
force. 

If Moses's law had been fully enforced, 
I fear avc should have had no forefathers ; 

And, if j/onr code of laws were all enforced, 
1 (hiuk there woidd be very/(vt' foromothers. 

These laws, you know, and so do I, ^^■ill harm 
The fathers — never. Oh, no! theij made 
tlieni, 
Woman had oio voice — no vote (that would 
man alarm) ; 
But, mind 3'^ou, may, must abide by them, — 

If men do choose these same laws to enforce. 

I have not the time to give in detail 
The foul, lawless deeds and shameful intrigues 

By which ya do manage to buy and sell 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 345 

Your most precious votes in this precious 
cause ; 

Rum is your weapon, and ye wield it Avell ; 
'Tis first and foremost in making these laws; 

What wonder, then, they have a bad smell, 

Led by this demon ? — of whom I must speak. 
Though not at much length, as I already 
have 

Used double the time I intended to take. 
'Twas only by courtesy they it me gave. 

Ijitcmperance, then, is one of the two evils 
I previously did note ; an evil, too. 

Which should be put down, abolished by laws, 
Instead of being so pampered by you. 

Are ye so polluted ye can not live 

Without your rum, gin, or brandy each day? 
May God in his mercy your sins forgive, 

And teach you to walk in the true, living 
way ! 

May you not in your folly tempt him to give 
" The cup of the wine of the fierceness of his 

wrath ? " 
" Be not among wine-bibbers." 
" And be not drunk Avith wine wherein is ex- 
• cess." 



346 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Let it not be said of you, my friend, 

" He transgresseth by wine, lie is a proud man, 

Neither keepetli he at home, who enlargeth his 

desire 
As hell, and is as death, and can not be satis- 
fied ! " 

" Woe unto him that giveth his neighbor drink, 
And putteth the bottle to him. 
And maketh him drunk also ! " 
" Shall not all these take up a parable against 
him, — 

And a taunting parable against him, and say, 
" "Woe to him that increaseth that which is not 

his!'' 
" Woe to him that buildeth a town with bloody 
And stablisheth a city by iniquity ! " 

My friends, do you not think your law system 
Is becoming year by year more corrupt ? 

Be assured it is ; it has been said by some 
To be " rotten to the core," then reflect 

And see for yourself if what you do get 
Is not oft the price of innocent blood. 

The " Norman kings," we find, could not com- 
pete 
In chastity with the outlaw " Robin Hood." 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 347 

" Awake, ye drunkards, and weep : 
And howl, all ye drinkers of wine," 
" Be ye ashamed, O ye husbandmen ; howl, 
O ye vine-dressers, for the wheat and for the 
barley." 

Yes, for the ' wheat and for the barley,' 

It is indeed a shame ; for more is consumed 

"By distilling the same for liquors yearly 

Than would supply ihfi poor of the land with 
bread. 

And who is responsible ? You, my friend, 
If you do partake, or encourage the same : 

Yea, everi/ mother'' s son now in the land 

Who doth use, huy, or sell it is to blame, — 

Except it be for medicinal purpose. 

And here let me say that you do by far 
Overrate its merits for this good purpose. 

Another thing : your liquors must be pure, — 

To produce a good effect in any case. 

Now, you will most likely bring evidence 
Of Bible authority for the use 

Of wines as drink ; for our Saviour did once 

Manufacture wine just from pure water ; 
If you can do this, you've a right to drink ; 



348 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

'Twould be perfectly harmless, you may be sure. 
No more so than was his, wliatever ^ou think. 

Now, they had in those days just simply wines; 

None of your filthy whisky, rum, brandy ; 
No champagne, sherry, claret, or highfalutin 
names ; 

FvUt, as I said before, just Avine simply. 

They did have tioo Jmids, differing enth'ely. 

The first was the pure juice of the grape, 
Boiled to the consistency of jelly. 

Then in skin bottles or vessels j)ut up. 

These, being perfectly air-tight, would keep 
The wine in this condition a long time; 

When wanted for drink, they placed in a cup 
A small portion of this, and ulled to the brim 

With pure fresh water, mingling the t ame, — 
" And drink of the wine which I have mingled," 
" Thy Avine mixed with water." " She hath 

mingled her wine." 
This wine, of course, had not been fermented, — 

Was merely used as a pleasant drink. 

Being easy to transport, we often read 
Of travellers taking this wine to drink. 

Accompanied by fruits, flesh, or bread. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 349 

" And lie dealt to every one of Israel, 
Both man and woman, 
To every one a loaf of bread, and a 
Good piece of flesh, and a flagon of wme." 

" And Ziba met David with two himdred loaves 

of bread, 
And an hundred bushels of raisins. 
And an hundred of summer fruits. 
And a bottle of wine." 

The king did ask for whom these Avere sent, — 
The bread and fruit for the young men to eat ; 
So she said, but the wine to be drank 
By such as were in the wilderness faint. 

" And thou didst drink the pure blood of the 
grape." 
This, we presume, is the kind of wine 
Paul did recommend for thy " stomach's sake." 
Our Saviour's production was doubtless the 
same. 

As you must all infer, 'twas harmless quite ; 

Kot a single case where a bad effect 
Attended the same : this wine gave delight, 

Good cheer, brought joy and gladness to the 
heart. 

30 



350 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

" And the vine said unto tliem, Shall I leave 
My wine, which cheereth God and man, 
And go to be promoted over the trees ? " 
Bnt we here take up the other Idnd of wine, — 

Fermented wine, which is intoxicating. 

When mentioned in Scripture, the words 
' strong drink ' 
Often follow in course, distinguishing 

This same from the other, we think. 

" Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging ; 
And whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise." 
" Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, 
When it giveth Jus color in the cuj)." 

" At the last it biteth like a serpent, 
And stingeth like an adder." 
" For their wine is the wine of Sodom, 
And of the fields of Gomorrah ; 

Their grapes are grapes of gall, 
Their clusters are bitter ; their 
Wine is the poison of dragons. 
And the cruel venom of asps." 

There are repeated injunctions in Scripture 
Prohibiting the use of this Iclnd of wine ; 

Also severe threatenings to those who err 
In this respect, — partaking of " red wine." 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 351 

" The words of King Lemuel, — 
The prophecy that his mother taught him. 
What, my son ? and what, the son of my womb ? 
And what, the son of my vows ? 

Give not thy strength unto women, 

Nor thy ways to that which destroyeth kings. 

It is not for kings, O Lemuel ! 

It is not for kings to drink wine, — 

Nor for princes strong drink ; lest thou 
Drink, and forget the law, and pervert 
The judgment of any of the afflicted. 
Give strong drink unto him that is ready to 
perish, — 

And wine unto those that be of heavy hearts. 

Let Mm drink, and forget his poverty, and 
remember 

His misery no more. Open thy mouth for 

The dumb, in the cause of all such as are ap- 
pointed 

To destruction. Open thy mouth, judge right- 
eously, 
And joZeacZ the cause of the poor and needy. ''^ 
" A feast is made for laughter. 
And wine maketh merry." 



352 MISUNDEHSTOOD. 

Many passages tell oi" the heart being merry 
From drinking ' strong wine,' or Avine that is 
' sonr,' 

Whieh means the same ; and also merry 
In the place of drunk, it docs seem kinder. 

They never do say it makes the heart glad, 
Gives joy, or happiness, or even good cheer ; 

The wine that makes merry is surely had^ 

And those who do drink it must pay for it dear. 

"Woe to the crown of pride, 
To the di-nnkards of l^phraim ; 
Whose glorious hi^auty is a fading flower, 
Whieh are on the head of the fat valleys 

Of them that are overcome with Avine ! 
The crown of pride, the drunkards of 
Ephraim, shall be trodden under feet, 
The glorious beauty shall be a fading flower." 

" They shall not driidc wine Avith a song : 
Strong drink shall bo bitter to them that drink 

it." 
" Woe unto them tli;i t are mighty to drink wine ! " 
" Woe unto them that call evil good, and good 

evil ; 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 353 

Who put darkness for liglit, and light for dark- 
ness ; 
Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! " 
Listen to Ciiod's command unto Israel 
(I really fear that somebody broke it), — 

" And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying. 
Speak unto the children of Israel, 
AVhen eitlier man or woman shall 
Separate themselves to vow a vow of a 

Nazarite, to separate themselves unto the Lord : 
lie sliall sej)arate hims(,'lf from wine and strong 
Driidv, and shall drink no vinegar of 
Wine^ or vinegar of strong drinlc, — 

Neither shall he drink any licpior of grapes." 
" Lless the Lord, house of Israel ! " 
Be thou, like Daniel, no more partakers 
Of the king's wine. Holy, upright Daniel ! 

The residt is most wonderful to trace. 
" But Daniel purposed in his heart that 
He would not defde himself with the portion 
Of the king's meat, nor Avith the wine which he 
drank ; 

'Therefore he requested of the prince of the 

eunuchs, 
That lie might not defile liimself. 

30* 



354 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Now, God had brought Daniel into favor 

And tender love with the prince of the eunuchs. 

And the prince of the eunuchs said unto 
Daniel, I fear my lord the king, wlio 
Hath appointed your meat and your drink ; 
For why should he see your faces worse liking 

Than the children which are of your sort ? then 
Shall ye make me endanger my head to the king. 
Then said Daniel, Prove thy servants, I beseech 

thee 
Ten days, and let them give us pulse to eat. 

And water to drink. Then let our countenances 
Be looked upon before thee, and the countenances 
Of the children that eat of the portion of the 

king's 
Meat ; and, as tliou seest, deal with thy servants. 

So he consented to them in this matter. 
And proved them ten days ; and at the 
End of ten days their countenances appeared 
Fairer and better in flesh than all the 

Children which did eat the portion of 
The king's meat ; then Melzar took away 
The portion of their meat, and 
The wine that they should drink, — 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 355 

And gave them pulse. As for these four 
Children (His companions were Shadrach, 

Meslmch, 
And Abednego), God gave them knoAvledge and 
Skill in all learning and wisdom. 

And Daniel had understanding in all 
Visions and dreams. Now, at the 
End of tlic days that the king 
Had said that he should Ijring them in, — 

Then the prince of the eunuchs brought 

Them in l^efore Nebuchadnezzar, 

And the king communed with them ; 

And among them all was found none like these : , 

Therefore they stood before the king. And 
In all matters of wisdom and understanding- 
That the king inquh-ed of them, he found 
Them ten times better than all the 

Magicians and astrologers that were 

In the realm." Nor would these 

Holy men worship the king's golden image ; 

For this were they cast into the fiery furnace. 

" Pie answered and said, Lo, I see four men 
Loose, walking in the midst of the fire ; 
And they have no liurt : and the form 
Of the fourth is like the Son of God. 



856 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Then Nobncliadnczzar came to tlio mouth 
Of the burning fiery furnace, and spake, 
And said, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abcdnego, 

Yo servants of the most liigh (lod, — 

Come fortli, and come hither." 
Tlie fire had no power upon their bodies, 
" Nor was an hair of their Iiead singed, 
Nor the smell of fire had passed on them." 

Again, in Darius's reign, was Daniel tempted ; 

lie prayed unto his God, and for that 

Was cast into the den of lions. 

This was a conspiracy of tlie presidents 

And princes against him, because of envy. 
The king acted in haste, repented at leisure ; 
When the decree had gone fortli, he felt sorry. 
And said. Thy God whom thou feai'cst, lie will 
delivei". 

lie fasted all night, his sleep went from him ; 
In the morning he went to the lions' den ; 
"And the king spake, and said to Daniel, 
O Daniel, servant of the living God, — 

Is thy Giod whom thou servest continually, 
Able to deliver thee from the lit)ns ? 
Then said Daniel unto tlie king, — 
Mv God haih sent- his aiit/cl, — 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 357 

And lj;itii shut the li(jns' iiioutlis, that 
They have not hurt me ; forasmuch as 
Before him innocency was found in me : 
And also before tliee, O king, have I done no hurt. 

Then was the king" exceeding gkid for him." 
Now Daniel and his comrades lived very plain 

(Pulse is a pottage made from vegclahles oi' 
grain), 
As well as abstained from drinking wine. 

And this, my friends, is of vital importance 
Unto all ; and especially so to those 

Who would live near their God : it doth enhance 
The "spirit power " more than ye do know. 

As also doth high Uv/'nf/ impoverish 

The souVs demand, causing leanness and 
dearth; 
Pray take heed unto this, if ye would not perish, 

By your riotous living, from off of tlie earth. 

Of many now I fear we miglit say, * 

As did God of the outcasts of Israel, 

" His watchmen are blind : they are all ignorant. 
They are all dumb dogs, they can not bark ; 

Sleeping, lying clown, loving to slumber. Yea, 
They are greedy dogs which can not have 
enough. 



858 MlSUJSDEUaTOOD. 

Alul llu'v arc slicj^luTtls iliat can not untlorsland ; 
Tlh'ij all look to tlu'h' own /ra//.'" 

I beg, my friends, a moment's attention 

To one more ease relating to the king's wine ; 

It also relates to Vashti the qneen, 

Who l)ia\H'lv chose luu- (jiUHMishij) lort'sign, — 

J{;itluM' I hail olu'v [\\c king's low I'onuuaiul. 
"^rhe king '^ showed (he rieluvs of his glorious 
Kingdom, an hundri>d and i'onrseoj'e days. 
And, wluMi these days were ex|)ired, the 

King nuuh' a least unto all oC tlu' ]H'0|>le, 
Both \nito great and small, seven days, 
]n tlu^ eonrt. oi" the gardcMi oi' the king's pahiee." 
'' And liiey gaA'e them drink in vessels ol' gold, — 

And royal \vint' in abundauee, 
Aeem-ding to the state of the king, 
Antl (he drinking was aeeording to law; 
*None did compel : for so the king luul ajijiointed 

To all the oiVu'ers ol' his lu>use, that 
They should do (U-cordin(f to even/ nian''s pJeasurcJ'* 
(^Wo Avill give him credit for that, if for noth- 
ing else.^ 
lint, oh the wini'! " t)n (he si>venth day, — 



MISUNDERSTOOD. ?/}0 

When ilie heart of the king wus onerr// iviih wine,, 
He commanded seven ehambcrhiins to bring 
Viishti tlic queen before tlio king, Avilh the 

crown 
Royal, to show the peojile and tlie ^r/vntvj.s her 

beauty : 

V\n- sIk! Avas fair to h)ok U[)()ii. 

J Jut the queen Vashti refused to come 

At the king's commaiidinfiit hy tlic cliambcr- 

laius : 
Tlicrc fore was (lie king very wrolli. 

'i'ho king inquired of Ilie \vis(! men what should 
Wq done unto th(! (|U('cn. Thciy r('j)li(;d, — 
Vaslili lh(! ([uc(!n iiath not done wrong to the. 
King onlij^ but also to all the jn'inces, and (o ail 

I'lic people that are in all the provinces of the 
King. Foi- this deed of the queen shall come 
Abroad unto all 'Women,, so that they shall 
Despise their husbands in their cyes^ 

Tlicn shall there aiis(; too much (•onteinpt and 

wrath." 
" If it })U;asc the king, let there go forlli a ro)'al 
( V)iuinan(hn(uit from him, and let it be written 

among 
The laws of the Persians and Me<lcs, that it bo 

not altered, — 



aoo 



MlHl'NIHUCsinni). 



TIimI Viishll ronu^ iu> moic Ix'turi' Kiii;'; Aluis- 

IKM'IIS ; 

And Irl lilt" Kin;'; ;',i\t" Ihm' roynl rslnt(< 

I Into atu'tlur Ihal is hrttrr (hiiii ^7<('. 

Anil, wluMi (lu> kii»_i;\s iloorou which ho shall 

ni;ik(< 

Sliiill l>o piil'lislu'd llu(»n!;lu>ut <il/ {\\o i-nij>lrt\ 
All t/ir it'irrs H/ial! (/ii'<' (<> tfi<'ir /luslunu/ft /it>ih>t\ 
llolli io (fi'iitf and aiiKtl/. ( Alu>ni!) 
And I h(^ SUV int;" /'/<•( rNrv/ iUo kiiu/ iiwd (lu> fn'iii- 

(■<s : 

And (111" ivin;'; (//(/ iiffitrdin!;' (o (lu< word of 

MiMniuan : 
(Ifil. hud luMMi l>ani<"l, inslciid of MiMunoiui !") 
I«\>r ho soni U^KaM's inio idl (»!' I ho kinjfs |>ri>v- 

inoi^s, 
I'nlo ovtM'v |M'o\ inoo iiooordini^' lo (ho wriliiii;' 

ihlM'tH)!', ■-- 



A>>d lo ovin'v ]UM>plo nUvv Ihoir hinji'iingv, — 
'V\\nl i-rt'n/ nidii .nV/o;*/./ /((J/v /•///<• /// /ila otvn 

" A ft or t /!('}((' t/titii/i^% siiid I ho Uini;''s soi'Viuds, 
Lot. thoro bo ,/'(»//• tioutuj I'hyins s^>ii.tiif t\>r fli,\ 
khui : 

And K>t iho ni.iidrn w hn h pK-a-oth iho Kin;;' 
Wo (nu-on, instead id' \ ashli. And iho thiiijjj 



MIHllNDI'JMirooi*. 



r.OL 



l'lc;i:i((l I ho I. iii;>' ; hikI Im did no." 
"And llir l.iii"; loved (!) Miillirr id)(»v<! nJI Mio 
woimii." 

r'l'innds, ciui you iumi I, Ik- riioiid lo llii.t n((»i y ? 

TIkj Kiiijj ),;<tl drunk : Mm <|n(!cn, itlic il'nl 
JKut rl(//if. 
I liii(ni l.o in;i.",nirv licr n;uM<! in |',l<>ry : 

I iMlvis(! \ on lo Kc(|t licr pi in<i|i|{':; in hI^'IjI., ■ — 

And It'll nn^ now if \<iu do nol. Ilniil. 

TIki ///('//, liii.v(! |»roj';rci-(iird ini.l, ii, vi'iy liUhi 
( l<'.X('n|)l, in on(t iJiin'',, itnd lliid. i:; diiiiK ). 

If \v<) (-onld only llto |finjM-i':iii('(; <jii(':tlion 

W(!UI(S — 

Von ini'dd. :ill Ik' <|n('(MiM, wil li lun)';,i, oil, no liiir I 
Ami now, my (l(iii,r rii(!ii(lH, I hid you riu'dWfll, 

Wild licr on hind oi' iu!!i,, whcrcvcf yon !i,r(t, 
M;iy rhc ( Jo(| of lov<i wil hill your Immi I, dwell I 

I ;;lii)uld III, I' mmdi morn lo :;,'i,y nnl.o you, 
r*iil. for I he |nc:;('nl, mu;l w;iil, ; niciin whilo, 

|)oiri, roi;i('l, (Jic, ohi m;ui wIki'm hccii hilkiiiK 
In you : 
'•■'rriliil, in iJio l.ord,'' :iiid nil will hr well. 



Oiii- dc;ir, Kiii<l IVicnds, \V(5 );it(!|, you iiJI. 
Aro y^\w\ <»m(! nuud (,o Micel, wilh you, 



362 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

And clicrislictl memories reeall. 

It has been good for you, we know, — 

That we did leave 3^011 for a while. 

Our elder brother, grandfather. 
Kindly instructing 3'ou tlie while. 

He's a dear old soid, this brother, — 

And has at heart the welfare of 
(lod's own ; yea, all humanity, 

So deep and tender is his love. 
He is far-sighted naturally ; 

And things to liim come very clearly. 

His kin below are numerous ; 
These he loves most truly, dearly, 

And hojies through his and our endeavors 

Full many will embrace the truth ; 

And be instructed, while below, 
Of things he knew not Avhile on earth, 

For angels never " told him so." 

We here do all so plainly see 

The great advantage spirits have, 

AVho learn the way of truth below. 

We long to have them share our love, — 



MIfiUNDERBTOOD. JUJ3 

And lice(i (jur wiuiiiu^s, meant lor good. 

We have their welfare miieli at heart, 
And, thoiigli we be misundej'stood, 

W(! .still will act a *' hrother'K part ; " 

Do what we can, and leave the rest 

Unto our heavenly Father dear. 
Who ruleth all things I'or the best, 

Whether or not it so appear. 

We li(;r(; (h> ol'L inspire the minds. 

As 1 have <]oubtle«s said before, 
Of those who seek diviner aids, 

r'rom this iriie source of wisdoin pure. 

One other piivilege we have, 

(1 think I've never mentioned it) 
Which fills our hearts with heavenly love ; 

A love boni of th(! Holy Spirit. 

We here of course new friends do find. 

Noble ones who were on earth 
Faithful ; also cultured and refined, 

Having i-eceived there tlu; " new birth," 

And, prcjgr(;ssiiig rapidly Iw/re^ 

Do hav(; within th(;mselv(;s a powei" 

I>y faj- exceeding human loi-e. 

i^arlh's wisest ones listen with wonder 



864 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

When such as these inspire a spealver. 

The i)nvilege Ave have is lliis : — 
To introduce these same to clear 

And cherished earth friends, wliose bliss 

Seems for llie linu' iH>m})]i>(t' ; so full, 
So rieli, so deej), so imbued willi U)ve, 

The inspirations wliich do fall 
Not unheeded on those we love, 

A faint eoneeptiou of the joy 

This same doth give onr loving hearts 

May be imagined Avhen " Ship ahoy ! " 
Is heard, and the kncnvledge inii>arts, — 

That you are nearing yonr ihihlhood's liome 
After, i)erehanee, many years of absence. 

With you from forcMgn shore has come 
A noble IV'uMid whose very presence 

Is soid-inspiring. He halh A\isilom, 
Knowk'^dge, wit and hnnior, culture; 

A way of imparting the same 
So i)leasing, indeed 'tis rap)tnre 

To listen to Ins glowing words. 

As he describ(>s fair Italy, 
The home oi' his luMit, wiruli alVords 

Suih ran^ beantv of scem-rv, — 



MIHUNUKUSTOOD. 305 

Siicli ii ('()iiil)iii!i,ii<)ii of art,, 

Tiilciil., iniisi(;, itiid ,s\V('(!l, son;,'. 
^'(llll• friciKls III lioiiit', yon Ircl in yonr lusiirt, 

W^ill <;i'o\v liMppy, liopcCnl, ;mi(I slronL"', — 

'Ncaili (lie i;'('ni:il iiiMncnco 

Ol' your own dciir iind chcfislxid IVicnd. 
Yon mail; IIk; kindlinj^' eye;, fi'om wliicli 

licanis nnnlUirod j<»y of lioarl, mind, — 

And soul. \VIi(ir(>v('r yon (ak(! Iiini, 

Il(^ is i,li(^ life, and li<;Iit, of all. 
1 )o you rejoice, my IViend, willi (lieniV 

( )!' e(tui'S(! yon do ; yon mnsl, ; '(-is well. 

TIk! Iieii^hl. ol" your ind)ounded joy 

Is but a, spark, one; little ^leani, 
Compared willi what we Iia,v(! this (hi,y 

Enjoyed within your ehiiicirs ri^dni. 

Our I'ricnd was introduced, and tlld 

Inspire the servant of the Lord. 
Souls with the bread ol" life were fed 

I^'rom out (Jod's j)nr(! a,nd holy word. 

\V(; in (^ai'lJi-lile dwelt in your town, — 

My comrade and myscilf, I nu'aii. 
(Hut not th(! friend who did insjiire.) 

We W(M'e brothers: he won; no gown, — 

!J1* 



366 MISITNDKRSTOOD. 

As did I. lliat did not part us ; 

AVo were brothers all the same. 
Nothing noAV will ever part us, 

lu onr briglit and iioavenl}" home. 

We both Avero shepherds with a flock, 

Endeavoring to do oiu" best ; 
That but proved oft a stumbling-block, 

And since hath caused us much unrest. 

We long these errors to recall ; 

We long to see God's truth made plain. 
His promises are unto all ; 

All will in time his love maintain. 

(lod hath so by his Son revealed ; 

Contrary teachings are but vain. 
God's book is not wholly unsealed ; 

Many dark saj-iugs still remain 

A stmnbling-block, as ours have been ; 

And, though 'twas unintentional 
With us, the effect remains the same 

As if it were premeditated evil. 

But as we came not here to (jive 
A sermon, but to listen to one, 

We will forbear. The text ive gave. 
It is with us a J'avorite one. 



MLSUNDERSTOOD. UGl 

'Twas this : " Speaking the truth iu love." 
To those who did the sermon hear, 

Nought need be said ; the spirit of love 
Seemed all pervading, hovering o'er 

The precious soids to us so dear. 

We read tlio inmost iiearts of some, 
And i'onnd in tliem so much to clicer, 

h'oiind them so mucli ncfirer their home, — 

Than when we left them years ago. 

Some have progressed quite rapidly; 
But the majority are slow, 

Although tliey will eventually 

Come boldly forward in the cause. 

Many there are wlio mi/jht become 
Pure instruments of God's free grace, 

Brightening many a heart and home. 

I looked upon no face of kin ; 

I had none there, as had my brother. 
He was standing near a son, 

Watcliing tenderly one other, — 

Sweeter, dearer than all beside. 

He longed to throw his arms around her, 
And call her his own dear " spirit bride ; " 

To embrace in tinn eacli daughter 



308 MISUNDEKSTOOD. 

Standing there so sweet and mild, 

With faces radiant and fair ; 
They felt a presence undefilcd, 

Although thej' knew not he was there. 

I was with my medium, 

Who writes the pages of this book. 
'Twoidd needless be to give my name : 

You know it well, and no mistake. 

If you could but one half as well 
Conceive of all the tender love 

I have for you, I have for all, 

My joys would be jnore bright above ; 

While yours, my friends, would not be less 
To show yom: love is not to lose it ; 

He who gives most doth most possess : 
He who tvithholds can not retain it, — 

Even what he seemeth to have. 

Oh ! my friends, that ye might be found 
Ever speaking the truth in love ! " 

It is the dearest, sweetest, sound 

Which can ascend to the throne of God. 

Speak it, feci it, show it, live it ; 
Faith I'ul then shall ye prove, and good; 

Your iiiiluence, too, will be great. 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 369 

Reijjard not, then, the false friendship 
Whieli the worldling can only give ; 

Drink decpl}'" from the Saviour's ciip, 
Filled to the brim with sacred love, 

And let it be within your heart, 

A " living well," from whence shall flow 

Waters so pure, and fresh, and sweet. 
Diffusing: love on all below. 



My friends, I feel 'twould not be right, 

This op2)ortunity to pass 
Of testifying, in God's siglit. 

To the wondrous love I do possess 

Unto the Father as supreme, 
Unto the Son as Saviour dear, 

Unto the Spirit which lias come 
Unto my soul so very near. 

With raj)turc! did I listen yesterday. 
To the words of inspiration pure ; 

Now falling like the geutle dew. 
Upon each tender earthly flower ; 

Now soaring as on eagle's wing, 
So high above the earth's domain; 

Both loud and clear the voice did ring ; 
Tlie angels must have caught the strain. 



370 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

And wafted to tlieir own bright shore, 
That tliey might echo it again 

In language pure, concise, and clear, 
To benefit the race of man. 

Both truth and love had found a voice. 
Yea, a grand and clear interpreter ; 

Which did the heart and soul rejoice. 
With words of comfort and good cheer. 

It said that those who did combine 
These forces here should have a glance 

Of that city bright and golden. 

Before they did from earth go hence. 

Methought, e'en then, came beams of light 
Just wafted from celestial spheres. 

The day was fair, and very bright. 
The voice did say, but few such days 

Had we ; cloudless, perfect, serene ; 

It might with truth have also said, 
Few such hours as this^ I ween. 

Are we permitted here to spend. 

We may each da}^ if so we please. 

Refresh our souls with " angels' food ; " 

"Qvii feasts of love such as these 

Come not often. Oh that they could ! 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 371 

For then our soul-life would, I know, 

Grow stronger, richer, purer, 
And " toithin" as the voice did say. 

The " kingdom of God " would be surer. 

This feast so rich, so full, complete, 

"Will linger in our memories 
Until our hearts shall cease to beat ; 

Then, with us, as incense rise 

Unto the spheres from whence it came. 

The truth it has in love revealed 
Shall, too, ascend unto the same ; 

And by it nations may be healed. 

For God doth will that it again 
LilvC gentle showers shall descend 

Upon his noblest work, even man. 
And man shall not alway contend 

Against the truth of spirit power. 

The scales of ignorance shall fall 
From eyes now dimmed by worldly care ; 

Prophets of old did this foretell. 

Ages, since then, have come and gone. 

Cycles of ages unto a soul 
Are sometimes given, ere it turn 

From the paths of sin which it control. 



372 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

All shall at last, nevertlieless, 

In peaceful habitations dwell, 
Be clothed in robes of righteousness. 

By Him who is our " All in All." 

We will now return to our first love, 
Or, if 3^ou choose, to our heroine. 

Whom we thought not so long to leave. 
'Tis well with her ; for she hath been 

Meanwhile rapidly developing. 

Although, to herself, it seemed but slow. 
She " sat " each da}^ but no writing 

For many months had she to show. 

Her faith was strong, her hopes were bright ; 

She was upheld, and knew it too. 
By a higher power ; all would come right: 

The blessed " angels told her so." 

Her guides did at one time expect 

Her to control mechanically; 
That she might write, and they direct. 

This would of course be rapidly. 

In this they were disappointed. 

She wrote in time, but never lost 
Her individuality : instead 

What came to her, slowly at first, — 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 373 

Came through her brain ; thoughts were given, 
And she impressed to write them down. 

Tliis she did for days, weeks even, 
Before she made to others known 

The secret of her glad success. 

One thing to her seemed very strange : 
She could not write a word of prose ; 

She could only these thoughts arrange 

In simple rhj^me, try as she would. 

She supposed her pastor did 
Control her brain. She'd never heard 

That he the gift of poesy had. 

At length she went and had a chat 

With him again, but nothing said 
Of her success : she chose to wait. 

Her pastor did at once proceed 

To broach the subject near her heart, 

Congratulating her most kindly. 
He did the secret, too, impart, 

Of her writing poetically. 

Another spirit, who did possess 

The gift of poesy, did aid 
Him in his labors ; and success 

Had crowned their efforts which required 

32 



37-:l j\iisiiNi)i".i;sr()()i>. 

Unltod pt>\V(M'. 'riu>v liiid siUHcrdod 
Quito well thus far. 'VUc sentimonts 

Exju'ossi'tl NvtM'i' his: she w iio aiiKMl 
Had ht'tMi a. wcll-kiiow ii |H»i>tess 

111 M'ars iii;(Hit>; \\cv \vt>iks AvtM'i^ now 
Ivoail and ailiuiaHl ; hi'r htnirt, ho said, 

"Was lill(>d witli ]»ity I'or human woo; 
Stroiii;' lior (h'sirt> to (i(ht>rs aid. 

llo giivo iior uauio, and aski>d our I'rioud 
To ploaso \\vv o\\\i \\riliu!;'s riMU[)aro 

With thoso oi" liiM' who, puio, rrliiiod, 
Pid tlu>si> saiut> wriliuj^s hrlp iuspiro. 

Thoy \vi>uld, ho said, (piito wt-il ronipari\ 
Althoui;h, of oourso, sho who iiisjiiroil 

Hail proi^iH'ss iuaih> siuoi^ liviuj:^' horo ; 
A\u\ what sho L;a\t> doul>tloss appoarod 

Murl\ uioro ad\anrod tliau tliat w ITuh sho 
l>id write whilo li\iu;^' in this s|)horo. 

Thoy should in tiuu' bo alUo to 
(^outrol hi>r ol'toiior and moro. 

MoauwliiU> thoy wlsliod lior io oontiuuo 
Wcv '* sitting's " daily, and to sa\o 

All luM- writing's. " 'rhi\\ will win you," 
Wo did say, '* launds bright abovo." 



MiHi'Ni)i;it:n'(»<)i). o75 

Soon ii\'U',y iliis our IVifMid hcdiiiiio 
S:mI(I<'II(;(| us Ity Hoiwt; Mnrcow (Kioj). 

Six- <(iiil<l iKil. (•iHiiprclicml iJic hiiiik;, 
And yci/ hIm; could iiol, rrt;l, or nI(M!j). 

'I'licic sci'iiicd :ui indi'iiii;il)l(; 

I'celiii}-;' of <lrc;td of --hIio hiic.vv iiol, vvli;i,l,; 
No I'dJiKoii vviirt (licic, liUif^lMc!, 

]<\)r Ji(!r jiiohI, hjkI and vvol'iil HLatc. 

Tliirt coiitiimnd nnarly a w<h;1c ; 

TlHiM (••,[\\\(: ',1 l(;(,l<!l' IVoiii licr liouMi. 
Ilcr iiioIImt Wits very, v'^ry sicli : 

SIh! vv;i:i iniicJi needed in (li;ii lioiric, — 

And yeL eouM lliey, niniil, lliey, t.nhniil, 

'I'o ;i- d;i,ily eonlin;!, vviUi on<! 
VViioiu they had almost h';irn(;d (,(j halo, 

IkjoaiiHO of iho Hj)iril luil tono 

or iJie htti.ers iliey had re(;(!iv(!(J 

I*Voni hei' of h'lie? She waH, they thought, 
So h;d ;i,str;iy, so delnditd. 

'I'h(! eh;inj.n! which h;i,d in her been wroufdit 

I)isph;ah;ed them f.ore ; thcy Hcar(;(5 conhl hoal' 
'J'hc thoii;.;ht of having' Ik;!' nitiirn, 

Mucli as they felt they nccdiMl her. 

'] heir he;i,rts with an^jci' toward her hunied. 



n7('> 



MISHNIHIKSTOOI). 



SIic li;i(l III) iii';lil^ (n (liiis dis^'nu'C 
I lci:;rl r iiiid I liciii ; for in I heir eyes 

Slic li;i<l (Idiic ;>(). 'riic\' lidW could jililCO 
III lin- im ( I'll:! ; llic\"d iiol. disj^iliso 

'riicir rccliii!';,s cillicr, when ."lie caiiK". 

I iidccd, I lie Irl Ivr .slir rcc('i\ cd 
Wiis ((.Ti'dilc. II' did Iicf l»l;iiiH> : 

'rii(\v '-*■ ktic/n'' lli;i(. slic li;id been deceived. 

'Pli(\y I'eiircd lii;il. she would Itriiif;' oil llicin 
Slill more dis;';rii('(>, if not '' pul. down." 

'riicy iirj'Micd lliiis who dwelt ;it home, 
I )ecidin;;' lli;il. I heir !><':;(■ W'liy lluMi 

Wiis io silence her ;il once. 

Should sh(> Jillempl. Io viiidiealo 

1<'illiei' herseir or I he drciid cause 

Which had annoycij (hem so of lalo. 

Much a;i she dreaded (o rel iirii, 

(hir friend hclicxed I he lime had come 

Imh' her Io i'd iiiilo her ow ii. 

And leave Ihe issue all wilh Ilim 



Who cauie liimseH' " uiilo his own," 
And '•'• his own recei\'eil him iiol." 

She would, if need he, licai' ( lu'ir scorn. 
Iler Sa\ionr had lor her, no donhl, — 



MIHIINDI'lltHTOOl). 



y77 



noriic. iiioic lli:iii :.li(5 would e'er \h; cuJI(k1 
To \)c:\y For ollicrM. Slioiild hIio Hliirk 

l^'iH)!!! doiii^ wliiil liUJi! hI)(! could ? 
No, iiid(!(!d; kIk! Ii;i,d ;i woik 

To do For Iliiii ; do \l, six; iiiiimI,. 

Nor did sIk! Fcsir lic.v s( rciij^l li vvoidd I'iiil ; 
For ill ihf iiorvj hIic- fiiil, lir!r t^'iisl,, 

A nd Ik; would liclji licr lo FiiKlll 

JIcfsoiirH i'(!f|U(!sl-, wliicli w;i,s, lliiiislio 
Mif^liF do Mm; w(»ik |)ic|»;iicd For licr. 

Not only do, \)\\l lii'.ar iiJ.so 
Wliaiovor trials ctimo to li(;r. 

Slio ]i^WAV mdTc, calm, now tli;il licr mind 

VViis KJitthid as to <Juty'H call, 
And Felt licrHcdC i'ully rcHij^iicd 

(Into licr lic;i,vcnly l'';i,l,licr',s will. 



She ));iid ;i, Fai'cwell visit <-o 

lie)' Frii'iid lliroii'^li wlioni lier pastor catnc 
His advice she l<n(;w would he 

'J\) g(j at once unto her home. 

'I'hat visit did her stren^l h r(!now. 

J Fain would j.dve its inijioj't in full, 
]>tit, as I (;an not, he;^' thiit you 

My reason will ii,c(;e|)(, ;ind le(;l 
32* 



378 MlSUJSUKU8TO()l>. 

It is llio iriitli, tlum[;h not (ixpicssecl 
111 just tliu Avovds lior ])ast()r g'ave. 

IIo spoko at ()iu;o oL' lier iiiiicist, 
TViddiii!^- hoi- to no longer griovo. 

He Baiil tlu^ I'lii-y ol" I lie sloiia 

Was overpast ; it had indeed 
Been a most wild^torrifie one. 

An ovil wind wliieh did proceed 

From her c^herisht'd ones at home 

Had reached lu'r, and dc])ressed her souh 

She was not a(^ all lo hhune, 

And yet could not luu-sclf i-oiilroL 

'i'hc advt'isc iiilliu'iice hud hrra 
So very strong", she had suilered, 

And deeply loo ; yet, be it known 
Unto lit'i', her riiends had siilVered 

Far nioj'e kiH'nly lliaii had slu-, 

Whose faith and trust W(-it> in the 1/orch 
He did to her a stcn-ui portray ; 

A storm in wild, teuvpcslnous mood ; 

Where lightnings Hashed, and ihundcr rolKnl 

Along the zenith of the sky ; 
Clouds of darkness the earth had lilleil, 

r>u( Ihi-y wcvc ni>\v breaking away. 



MISUNDKRMTOOD. o7t) 

Ali'cudy ill tlio wcisUira tiky 

Clciiiiis ()(-' l)rigliinos8 wero rciuniing; 
TJio sun ill ill] i(s in;ijc8(;y 

Would ,s()()ii (j'(!L' all ilio carili Uo Kliinin^. 

Natuio would sccra so fresh and pure 

Wlicii all was o'er; a holy calm 
I'(uvadhig it fi'oiii shore to slioio. 

The Btorm, wliile i-eiguing, oft did seem 

Tcrrilic in its sploudor grand; 

But it did tend to purify 
And cleanse the atmf)spl)ero around. 

And not unlik(! the clear blue sky 

Was tlio effect produced on earth. 

Now, like unto this storm had been 
'J'he wrought-up feelings round that hearth 

Where duty seimu^d to (;;ill lusr soon. 

Yes, sh(! had Ixjcn iiii|)rcsse(t aii,";ht ; 

TIk! time had conn; for Im'.v ictiirn. 
Sfjme battles she would have to fight, 

But strength would unto her be given. 

Her soul at times would soar aloft: 
She would be " moi(! than compieror." 

Nor would she be wholly bereft 
Of hiiiiian synipalhy lo cheer; 



380 MISUNDEUSTOOD. 

Though for the present she must stand 
AlvONE, iirni as the "Rock of Ages." 

Ilcr senxc of rijiltt viuxt never boid, 
Not even to the 'iciscst saues. 

She had within a monitor 

Which eoukl not fail to lead arij^'ht. 
Her spirit-guides would e'er be with her, 

And they would keep 7ier spirit bright. 

When trials eame they would uphold ; 

If pain and sickness did attend. 
Then Avhispcriugs of joys untold 

Would come unto her soul, attuned 

To heaven's harpsichord of love. 

She ne'er would be or seem alone 
Unto herself, but from above 

Hol}'^ society woidd come. 

As to her earthly friends, 'twas true 
That for their sakes she must endure 

Some persecutions ; but they would be. 
He felt to say, much less severe 

Than she supposed ; her friends, though still 

Most bitterly opposed to truth. 
Were softened by affliction, until 

They did aspire higher than earth. 



MLS UNDERSTOOD. 381 

Feeling the liollow oiiijjLJiicss 

Of life without tlic "iuwurd l>iri]i," 

She would to some her views express, 
Who would not think them all a myth ; 

Not even if they did declare 

'Twas nouijht but some " old woman's whim." 
They soon would find they too must share 

In the work of reformation. 

And one thing more he wished to say, 
Which he had saved until the lant 

To give it power; she must obey 

The Scriptures though, and make it first 

In her domain ; not only to 

Herself was it of vast import : 
It did concern the people too, 

Who would through her the truth receive. 

It was her ovjii plujHlcal lieallli^ 

Which had been sadly drawn upon 

By those possessing far more wealth 
Of worldly goods than die had known. 

Her ready sympathy had been 

As manna to their hungry souls; 
Nor had they felt it was a sin 

To monopolize her toils, — 



382 MISUNDEESTOOD. 

So long as they were freely given. 

This was why she had been led 
To leave her home. Upon return 

She would find her absence had 

Taught them a lesson, one they needed. 

They could now appreciate her 
As they never had or tvould, 

Had she remained a laborer, — 

Working solely for the bread 

Which perisheth in the using. 
A higher calling there she had, 

Her influence daily infusing 

More light and knowledge, though obscured 
By error's harsh and binding chain. 

For them she had trials endured, 

Which would, e'er long, bring a sweet refrain. 

But she must still be positive, 

And let no tie of friendship bind 
Her heart to home ; and she must have 

It understood she was not bound. 

Free as the birds which fill the air 
With sweetest music by their songs, 

So must it be henceforth with her. 
Free to roam where'er her songs 



MISUISTDERSTOOD. 383 

Were needed most, or she could be 

An instrument of faith and love 
Unto the weary ones below, 

Pointing their souls to joys above. 

Again he cautioned her so kindly, 

Just even as a mother would 
A darling child she loved most dearly. 

To remember what he had said 

Relating to the physical. 

There now was need, there might be more, 
For her to relinquish the toil 

Which did upon her system wear 

Far more than she did realize. 

The res^ which had been given her, 
And which she did most highly prize, 

Had been of benefit to her. 

The danger was, when she returned, 

It would be hard to break away 
From doing things which were considered 

Her tasks, and hers alone to do. 

But she must make the sacrifice : 

Her health recj^uired it, so did her work. 

Her life was of more consequence 
Than she had yet been wont to think. 



384 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

lie bade lier then a kind farewell, 
Bnt. said he oft should be with her ; 

Wherever she might be or dwell, 
Kind angels Avoiild attend her ever. 

She felt the truth of this assertion, 
After she reaehcd her village home ; 

She also felt there was no union 

Of thought and feeling in that home. 

In this, howe'er, she was mistaken. 
As she acknowledged very soon. 

Her coming had their quiet broken 

Just at the first ; but her gentle tone, — 

Her kind and loving services, 

Could not long fail to touch their hearts. 
"Whate'er might be her present views. 

Her life, they knew, was pure and chaste. 

She seldom broached her darling (heme, 
Because she felt her friends as yd 

Were unprepared to grasp the same. 

'Twas better she should '•'■ work and wait," 

And work she did with right good will. 

Her mother's health became quite iirm ; 
And then our friend was taken ill, 

For weeks confined unto her room. 



MIMUNDKILK'I'OOI). Ij85 

Ilcr ]);ili(!nc.(i wiis iiiil)()iiii(l(i(l lljoii, 
And (lould iiol; fiiil (o win I. lie- love; 

or (Jioso who s;iAV Iht \nr.iy I ho piiiii 
So chccrriiriy ; iuid il. did provo 

II('j' own d(!;ir spiiil, fVi(!nds wc.ni l.riKi. 

Sho full (Jicir prcisciico ovor nciir. 
Olhcrs nii^lii, doiihl,, l)ut kIio did knoto 

They diiily ininisLorcid to ]\(\i\ 

r said she Koldom broafdiod Ihis lliemo. 

Thorn woro oxo(!plJons, ono of wliioli 
I will rolaio. II, shows l-h<! ro;i,lni 

Of llioiij.;lil; which f.';ovoi'ns many Hiioh. 

OiK! friond sho liad ncai'(!r, (hsiiror, 
1 1, S(!oni(!d 1,0 lioi', iJiaii all iJio vest. 

Sh(! Ihou'.dil Ihis (Viond. iiii^jit listen to her, 
And, j)(n'Iiai)S, lioi'solf bo blest. 

OiKj (hiy, Koou after her r(;turu, 

She did receive a visit from hor; 
And did also mueh of her owji 

i''.xperi(!iie(! give;. It found no favor, — 

However, in the Minded eyes 

Of tliis friond, who still did love her, 

And grieved that their sisterly ties 
Must be severed ; it flid appear 



38G MisuNnionsToon. 

So stvangc to hor, and also to 

llic \vJu)lo oomniuuity, (hat she 
E'or could have boon so " led astray." 

AVhy it was, or lunv, she c-oidd iio( see. 

After conversing for a (inie, 

Tho friend burst forth, — tears filled her 
eyes, — 
"IVo heard you were a medium : " 

Quick eauvo the sobs, fast flowed the tears. 

This seemed to be tlie liny "hair" 

Which broke for her the " camel's back." 

Her heart scenunl lilled with wild despair, 
That one she loved could ever link 

Her fate with Ihal despised class. 

Our friend did wait until her qrief 
Was somewhat spent; then, with her arms 

Caressingly about her neck, — 

She spoke in tones so low and sweet, — 

"Our Saviour was a medium." 
These words ju-odueed a good effect: 

She grew composed, ;uid from (hat time 

Seemed not to think a medium 

Tho lowest work of God's creation. 

Wliether she felt 'twas power supreme 
Which did create, and them sustain 



MIHUNDERRTOOD. 387 

A "gitX" \yliicli th(;y ])OKHCKKc;rl ul biilh, 
As our dear friend tried to (ixplain, 

Slio could not tell ; bocaiine, forsooth, 
'J'liiH Kisler eliose it nlioiilrl roiriain 

In just that way ; very careful 

WuH she to not herH(;lf commit, 
Our friend was, too, qiu'te as careful 

Not to intrude or preHH her suit; 

F(!clinf( t}];i,t in "God's own good time" 
He would oil earth establish truth ; 

Knowing the liigh(!st medium 

Whicii carfh hnd Icnown w;i,s <>[ low birth. 

No gilded j);dace-hoine liad Ijc ; 

IJis followers wcjre mostly poor. 
The rich found not the magic key 

I>y whi(;h to open heaven's door. 

As I have said, our fri(;nrl grew sick: 
Her labor and " sittings " she gave up, 

TJnable, for a time, <,o work 
For spirits in the form or out. 

Yet never did she feel alone ; 

Sometimes in dreams they came to her. 
Soothing her weariness and pain. 

Visions she saw, so bright and clenr, — 



388 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Of faces familiar and dear, 

Kind friends within the summer-land. 
Then she would think, " All, all are there : 

Oh ! why should I be left behind ? " 

» Hai'k ! soft and low sweet voices come, — 
" Thy work is not accomplished yet. 
These glimpses of thy future home 
Are given to strengthen thine heart. 

Fear tliou not, but trust us still. 

We will sustain and guide 3a)U through 
The murky way ; all, all is well. 

There yet remains on earth for thee 

Much enjoyment pure and sweet. 

Then patience, patience, Avhile you wait 
Near the cross at Jesus' feet. 

You soon will work, instead of wait." 

With her returning health she gave 
Some time and strength to daily toil ; 

But strength came slowly. She did grieve 
That her endeavors seemed to fail 

To make her helpful in her home ; 

Helpful, I mean, physically. 
She found herself, many a time, 

Prostrated l)y a few hours only 



MISXTNDERSTOOD. 389 

Of labor in itself quite liglit. 

At first she could not guess the cause. 
She felt that others thought she might 

Perform more work, and take less ease. 

But it did seem impossible 

For her to overstep the bounds 
Of spirit-power inscrutable. 

If she approached forbidden grounds, — 

Her strength forsook her, and a voice 
Did seem to say, " Thus far, my dear, 

Thou mayest go, if 'tis thy choice ; 
But we shall let thee go no further. 

We claim some of thy time : thy strength 

We ask not for, but shall rather 
Somewhat add thereto at length, 

According to our own good pleasure." 

Then this was what her pastor meant ; 

And she must follow his advice, 
On spirit work be more intent. 

Even though at a sacrifice 

Of worldly good and honor too. 

She had each day, since well enough, 
Given an hour, and sometimes two. 

Unto her writing. 'Twas not enough : 



oW 1MIS11NI)1''.KS1H)(>1». 

So wluMi slu> I'oulil she ;;;i\i' (luMu moro. 

If viu'v \vi\irv, slio must wait 
Until \\cv weariness was o'er. 

And ihev would then new strength impart. 

This was no vain and idle ehat. 
For after '' sittings " she did tlud 

Herself U^ss weary : wIumi she sat 

This ]>ra\ lU' did unto lie:iNen aseenil : — 

'' (Joil ami angles, giM' me light. 

And kno\\ ledge too, that. I may hnow 

And write ahvay that, whieh is right. 
In jnstiiH* and in purity. 

'i'eaeh ine benevolenee and love, 

(live also sweet-voieiHl eharity : 
'I'liat / may give to all who live 

My fiiei\dship and my sympathy." 

Her w rilings were, as 1 ha\e said, 

Poetical ; this diil the nioro 
Prove that she n\nst be surely led 

Anil aidi'd by some spirit power. 

For in her ymith she hail not even 

A taste for r<>ading' poetry ; 
And seldom had her lime been given 

I'nto the same. She onee did trv 



MIHUNDDirSTOOl). 



ni)i 



'lo 101111 ill iliyiiu! ii(;i-ns( iciiJIy 

Tlio Hiiiiph; iiiiiiK' of licr liclovcd. 

Slu! Weill. ;il)(>iil, so l,li()ii;;ii( Tiilly 

I'^idiii (l;i,y l() (lay, Ikm' iiiiiid ubsoilicd, — 

Adding' (1 10 lipids. ^' Line upon liiKs, 

Line (l|)()ii line, liei'(; u lillle, 
'I'liere ;i lil.lle : " iJiis |)rei'e|)l, divine 

She did fidlill — :ind Mud, \v;is idl. 

TIk! |toor iiiissli;i-|)(!ii pocilry 

Did |)i'ov(! ii lailin'e wofidly diro ; 

And \vIm!Ii eo!ii|)lei(;d, sjkL (o Hiiy, 
I<\)iind no " ;iltidiii<^- eiLy hero." 

"I'wiis only (iL To Ix; eiisL out 

" In oilier (hiikiuiss," or llie '•'■ (ire," 

Which some le;iriied iiieii do |)r(!a(!li about, 
As if Ihey iiii;;hl, I heir heiirePH Hoare 

Into tho kiii;4(loiii of (iod's love ; 

I'ortrii,yui;4' not the !4lori(!S there 
Jn tliiit dear land so briu'lit aliove. 

J<'oi'<<:(!ttin<; lher(! can Ix; no (ear 



\Vher(! thei(! is triu; and jxMfeet hjve ; 

h\>\- "• ix'rfeel, love eastelh out fear." 
One word ol' kind advice we ^ive 

To (liose who need it, ahoiit " iiell-lire." 



JV.)li MISUNDERSTOOD. 

TIu! word of (unl, as wo do read it, 
W'c know (Ii)(>s siiy ihv.ro is '■'■ hcU-Jire.^^ 

Tlic Mord of (iod, as wii <1() read it, 

S;ivs liis luinisUM's arc '■''<( Jhniir of fire.'''' 

Now, our advioo llicy may not take, 
"Pis this: Jjvt not (he two fires meet; 

Fov '■' rdvc," '(is said, ••' attniots its like." 
II" (luM-('*s daui;'!'!', \\i' pray you IkhmI it. 

]\liuistor, hiwyiM-, doctor, tliiol"; 

Doctors, thieves, I)c jialicnt^ awhile^; 
Your time will conu> ; wc uiust he brief 

What, \novc wo say thi^ book to till ; 

'rhcrid"on> couhl not n'ive you your due, 
Which would be sad, for that even 

The Hcvil is entitled to, 

I'roiu all on earth, l»y all in luMven. 

Wi" iU) hoix lca\(> to ^iNc you here 

Our candid opinion of <;irls; 
Or (laughters, they're called in Si-ripture. 

We think their banner soon uid'urls. 

'I'he " w (uueu " and '^ wives," in days agone, 
WiMt> u(»( cousidcviMl of much aceoinit. 

As (»ur t^slcenu'il friend has slu>wu : 
'riu> daughters, liowcver, shall mount 



MlSUNDEliyTOOD. 393 

The " hill of Zion," and become 

As " corner-stones," when nil the days 

Of their captivity are gone. 

l^'or this is what the good book says : — 

"Tlie daughters of Jerusalem, 
The daughters of Judah and Zion, 
( Wliich wo interpret all' the same) 
In the eyes of the Lord did sin. 

Moreover, the Lord saith, 
lieciuise the daughters of Zion are haughty, 
And walk with stretched-forth neeks 
And wanton eyes, walking and mincing as they 
go, — 

And making a tiniding with their feet ; 

Therefore the Lord will smite with a scab 

The crown of the liead of the daughters of 

Zion, 
And the Lord will discover their secret parts. 

Li that day the Lord will take away 
The bravery of their tinkling ornaments 
About their feet, and their cauls, 
And their round tires like the moon. 

(OiK! step towiU'ds (Ik; milhinniiim, 
Vov \v(! don't wear hoops any more), 



394 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Tlie cliains, and the bracelets, and the mufflers, 
Tlie bonnets, and the ornaments of the legs, — 

And the head-bands and the tablets, 
And the earrings, the rings, and nose-jewels, 
The changeable suits of apparel, 
And iliG mantles and the wimples, — 

And the crisping-pins, the glasses. 

And the fine linen, and the hoods, and the veils. 

And it shall come to pass, that 

Instead of sweet smell there shall be stmk ; 

And, instead of a girdle, a rent ; 
And, instead of well-set hau", baldness ; 
And, instead of a stomacher, a girding of sack- 
cloth ; 
(Some of the wise ones have left off corsets.) 

And burning instead of beauty. 

Th}' men shall fall by the sword. 

And thy mighty in the war ; 

And her gates shall lament and mourn, — 

And she, being desolate, shall sit upon the 

ground. 
And in that day seven women 
Shall take hold of one man, saying, — 
We will eat our own bread, — 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 395 

And wear our own apparel ; 

Only let us be called hy thy name, 

To take away our reproacli." 

(From such women, " Good Lord, deliver us I ") 

Many men have fallen " by the sword," 

And many " mighty in the war." 
If seven women liaven't had hold 

Of one man, why, we're very sure 

It wasn't their fault. Not that we blame 
Them overmuch ; who could expect . 

Aught else, education the same ? 
Of course they ought not to reject 

A man of wealth and position, 

No matter what liis character. 
This is the parents' cool decision. 

His heart — oh, that j^ou must venture ! 

We scarce dare blame the silly woman. 

You've doubtless heard of such an one. 
Whose fervent, heartfelt petition 

Was, " Give us, O Lord, just any thing in the 
shape of a man." 

Though we blame not, we wonder not, that 
" All that pass by clap their hands at thee ; 
They hiss, and wag their heads, at the daughter 
Of Jerusalem, saying. Is this the city that men 
call 



306 MTSUNPETJ STOOD. 

The perfection of boanty, the joy of the whole 

cartli?" 
The Lord hatli ilono that which ho had 
Desired, " and from the daughter of Zion, 

All boanty is dojiartod." 

"The Lord hatli Imdden tlie virgin, the daugh- 
ter 
Of Judah, as in a wine-press," and liath 
Increased in the daughter of Jmhdi nionrning 
And hvineutation. Ibnv hath the 

Lord covered the ihmghter of Zion with a 
Cloud in his anger, and cast down 
From lieaven unto the cartli, the beauty of 
Israel ; now also many nations are gathered 

Against thee, that say, ' Let her bo dolilod. 
And let our eye look upon Zion ; ' but 
They know not the thoughts of the Lm-d, 
Neither understand they his counsel ; 

For he shall gather them as the sheaves 
Into the floor : therefore the jicople that 
Do not understand, shall fall ; " 
" To whom shall I s]icak and give warning, — 

That they may hear ? behold, thine ear 

Is \mcircumcised, and they can not hearken. 



MlflUNDERK^rOOD. ,307 

Ii(;liol(l, the word ol" the Lord ih unto thcrn 
A roproach : llicy havo no delight in it. 

" Tliereforc I am full of the fury of iho Loivl ; 
I am weary with holding iu; 
I will pour it out upon the children abroad, 
And upon the assembly of young m(;n together: 

Foreventhehusljand with the wife slinll he taken, 
And the aged with him that is full of days ; 
And their houses shall bo turned unto others. 
With their fields and wives together : 

For I will stretch out my hand upon the 
Inhabitants of the land, saith the Lord, 
For, fi'ora the least of tliem unto the greatest 
( )f them, every one is given unto covetousncss ; 

And from the prophet even unto the priest 
F.very one dealeth falsely : they have 
Healed also the heart of the daughter 
Of my people slightly, saying, — 

T^eace, peace, when there is no f)eace. 
Were they ashamed when they had eommitfed 
Ahominations ? Nay, they were not at all 
Ashamed, neither could they blush." 

84 



398 " MISUNDERSTOOD. 

" The virgin, the daughter of Zion, 
Hath despised thee, and laughed thee 
To scorn ; the daughter of Jerusalem 
Hath shaken her head at thee. 

The lofty looks of man shall he humbled ; 
And the haughtiness of man shall be bowed 
Down, and the mean man shall be brought 
Down, and the mighty men shall be humbled ; 

And the eyes of the lofty shall be humbled ; 
But the Lord of hosts shall be exalted in judg- 
ment" 
" When the Lord shall have washed away the fdth 
Of the daughters of Zion." 

" By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down. 
Yea, we wept when we remembered Zion. 
"We hanged our harps upon the willows 
In the midst thereof." 

(These " willows by the water-cburses " 
Some have assumed were palm trees all. 

We think not : how could the daughters 
Have hung their harps on trees so tall? 

Again : we almost think they were ; 

And that may be the reason why 
They hang so long high in the air 

'Tis hard to get them, they don't tr3^) 



MISUNDEESTOOD. 399 

" For thus tliey that carried us away- 
Captive required of us a song ; 
And they that wasted us, 
Required of us mirth, saying, — 

Sing us one of the songs of Zion. 

How shall we sing the Lord's song 

In a strange land ? " 

" All the daughters of music are brought low." 

" Set thee up way-marks, make thee high heaps ; 
Set thine heart toward the highway, 
Even the way which thou wentest ; 
Turn again, O virgin of Israel, — 

Turn again to these thy cities. 

How long wilt thou go about, 

O thou backsliding daughter ? for the 

Lord hath created a new thing in the earth. 

A ivoman shall cojiijmss a man: 
Thus saith the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel ; 
As yet they shall use this speech in the 
Land of Judah, and in the cities thereof, — 

When I shall bring again their captivity ; 
The punishment of tlicir iniquity is 
Accomplished, O daughter of Zion ; he will 
No more carry thee away into captivity. 



400 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

" Loose thyself from the bands of thy neck, 
O captive daughter of Zion ! for thus saith the 
Lord : Ye have sold yourselves for nought, 
And ye shall be redeemed without money." 

" Rise up, ye women that are at ease ; 
Hear my voice, ye careless daughters ; 
Give ear unto my speech. 
Many days and years shall ye be troubled, — 

Ye careless ones : for the vintage shall fail ; 
The gathering shall not come. 
Tremhle^ ye women that are at ease^ 
Be troubled, ye careless ones." 

Go through, go through the gates ; 
Prepare ye the way of the people ; 
Cast up, cast up the highway. 
Gather out the stones ; 

Lift up a standard for the people. 
Behold, the Lord hath proclaimed 
Unto the end of the world, — 
Say ye to the daughter of Zion, — 

Behold, thy salvation cometh. 
Behold, his reward is with him, 
And his work is before him." 
" O daughter of my people ! 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 401 

I have set thee for a tower and a 
Fortress among my people, that thou 
May est know and try their way. 
They are all grievous revolters, walking with 
slanders." 



" Ho, ho ! come forth, and flee from the land of the 
North, saith the Lord ; for I have spread you 
Abroad as the four winds of the heaven, 
Saith the Lord. , Deliver thyself, O Zion, — 

That dwellest with the daughter of Babylon. 
For thus saith the Lord of hosts : After the glory 
Hath he sent me unto the nations which spoiled 

you. 
For he that toucheth you touchcth the ai^ple of 

his eye. 

For, behold, I will shake mine hand upon them, 
And they shall be a spoil to their servants ; and 
Ye shall knoiv that the Lord of hosts hath sent me. 
Sing and rejoice, O daughter of Zion ; for, lo, — 

I come, and will dwell in the midst of thee, 
Saith the Lord ; and many nations chaU be joined 
To the Lord in that day, and shall be my people, 
And I will dwell in the midst of thee, — 

34* 



402 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

And thou slialt hiioiu that the Lord of hosts 
Ilaih sent mc unto thcc ; and the Lord shall 
Inherit Judah his portion in the holy land, 
And shall choose Jerusalem again. 

Be silent, O all flesh, before the Lord ; 
For he is raised out of his holy habitation." 
"■ Deck thyself now with majesty and excellency." 
" Blessed are ye that sow beside all waters." 

" Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion ; 
Shout, O daughter of Jerusalem ! 
Behold, the king cometh unto thee ; 
lie is just, and having salvation ; 

Lowly, and riding upon an ass, 
And upon a colt, the foal of an ass." 
Ye are not ignorant, my friends. 
As concerning this prophecy, 

And the interpretation thereof 

Thou understandest ; but, lo. 
This is not the end thereof; 

Let us a little further go, — 

And to the daughters hear what he says, — 
" As for thee, also, b}^ the blood of the covenant 
I have sent forth thy prisoners 
Out of the pit wherein is no wate?'.^^ 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 403 

"And when tliey drew nigh unto Jerusalem, 
And were come unto Bethphage, 
Unto the Mount of Olives, then sent 
Jesus two disciples, saying unto them, — 

Go into the village over against you, 
And straightway ye shall find an ass 
Tied, and a colt with her : 
Loose them, and bring them to me. 

And, if any man say aught unto you, 

Ye shall say. The Lord hath need of them ; 

And straightway he will send them. 

All this was done that it might be fulfilled 

Which was spoken by the prophet. 
Saying, Tell ye the daughter of Sion, 
Behold, the King cometh unto thee, meek, and 
Sitting upon an ass, and a colt, the foal of an ass." 

"And Jesus, when he had found a young ass. 

Sat thereon ; as it is written, — 

Fear not, daughter of Sion : behold. 

Thy King cometh, sitting on an ass's colt." 

" These things understood not his disciples at the 
First ; but, when Jesus was glorified, then 
Remembered they that these things were writ- 
ten of 
Him, and that they had done these things unto 
him." 



•lUl TMlSl'NDlMvSrooi). 

Tliiiilv yo it slnui_!L;'i\ luv Ioiu'iuhI iVit'iul, 
That o\mi yovir wisdom lialh uol [)iorc'(Hl 

'V\\c ]>iM]ilu4.'s vision, mIu'11 ye liiul 

TllOSO AvllO \VlM'l> lo Jl'SUS IKWlWSt 

* Umlorsiood iio(. iiiilil iluMr (^ycs 

BolioUl his brio-Ill, and mali'hloss glory? 
Not ovou tlioii, as wo surmise, 

Had tboy niovo than hair the story. 

The Kiiig must he {\\o lirst to come, 
And to couw uiilo (he dciHtfJitcrs : 

Ask ytnirsel\H>s if a( (his (inu' 

There are no(, wilhiii your rhin\'lu\s 

Many nun'O d<ni<jht<rs than ar(> (here sons? 

Jesus did liis eom]>assion shi)w 
For all ihese ]ioor (hdrnhnl ones. 

Regard i HO' (heir i'a|>(ivity. 

•"•And IhiMH' ("olloMt-d liim a grea( eompany 
Ol'lH'opU^, and MonuMi, whirh also hi>\\aiK'd anil 
l>amen(eil him ; bn( Jesus Inrning nn(o tlunusaiil. 
Daughters ol Jerusidem, weep not lor me ; 

l?nt wee]) for yoiu'selves, and J'or yi>ur 
("'liihlrtMi; for, behold, (lu> days are eoming, 
In lht< which (iiey shall say, r>K\'-^sed are 
Till* liarren, and (lu" wondts (ha( ni>ver bare, — 



MISIINDICRST. )()?). 'lOr) 

And U.'0 })iij)S which ii(!V(!r gavo suck. 

Then sliiill i\\vy Ix'giii to siiy to i\w. iiioiiiiliiiiis, 

l^'iiJI (til us; ;ui<l, lo (he, hills, dovci' us; 

l*'(»f il' Ihcy <lo ///.r.sv! /h/ii;/H in a (jrccn Uiitr, — 

VVJiiit shall Ih! (I<)U(! in a dry?" 

"O Jcrusahfui, Jorusalcui, 

Thou Ihiii kill(!st tho pi'opliois, and 

S(/()U(!sL ihcni Avhich un'. scnl, uul-o llicol 

How oI'Lcu would I ]iav(! [^iii licrcd lliy childreu 
Togotlicr, even as a hon galhcrcMi her cliiclccns 
Under h(!i- win_Ljs, and yo would iioLl 
I>('hol(l, your liouso is loft inito you dosolato " 

" Uuiil the Spii'it bo poured upon us from on 
High, ;uid the wilderness be a rniitCuI field, 
Ami I.Ik; rniiiriil (icid he coiiiitcd for ;i, roi'(!St ; 
Then jiidgiiu'iit shall dwell in IIk; wilderness, — 

And riglitcousncss remain in tlu; Criiiirul licild : 
And the work of rigliteousiuiss shall bo 
Peace^ and the eJJ'cct of rigliteoiisncss 
QuietncHH and ansurance forever. 

And rny ])(!Oi)l(i shall dwfjll in a peaeenhle hahi- 

taJion, 
And in sure dwellings, and iji (juietr(;sting-|)laees, 
Wlicn h shall hail, eoirung down on th(; forest, 
And the eity shall he low in a low ])lae(!." 



dOiJ I^llSUNDKJlSTOOD. 

"Sijin;', O (l;iu_L;liior of Zioii ! Shout, O Israeli 
Be ghul iuid ngoico Avilh all thy lioart, 

diuiglitor oi' Jerusaloiu 1 

The Lord liutli ta]<(Mi a.wa.y tliy judgments; 

JIo hadi cast out tliiiK! oiKMiiy : 
TJio King oi" Lsi'iiol, even tlio ]-.ord, 
]h in tlio jnidst of tlico ; 
Thou slialfc not 8C0 evil any more. 

In that day it shall ho said to Jerusalem, — 
Fear thou not; and to Zion, Let not 
U'liine hands ho slach. 'Hk^ Lord thy 
(n)d in (he midst of thcii is mighty; 

Il{! uill sa,ve, ]\c will rejoice over thee 
With joy ; ho Avill rest in his love, 
IJe will joy over thee with singing. 

1 will gather them that ai-e sorrowful 

lA)r (h(! solemn assembly, who is ol" theo 
'I'o wiioni the rejjroach of it was a burden. 
JU'iiold, at tliat lime will I undo all (hat 
AllLud. (lice; and I will sa,vc /icr (hat halleUi, — 

And ga,ther her (hat \\ as driven out ; 
And I will get (Iumu praiHc iiud/diiw. 
J II cNcry land where they liave heiMi ])ut to 
Shame. At (hrir (iiue will 1 bring you 
aixain, — 



MTSUNDKF.RTOOD. '1 07 

Even in llic timo tlial f gailier yoii : IV^r 
I will make yoii a nam<'. and a pralne - 
A\\\(>\\^ all people of Iho earilb wlicii I turn hack 
Your captivity licfoi-o your fiyoH, maitli ilio 
Lord." 

But ill the last dayH W, sliall c(jmo to pasH, 
Tliat llio mountain of tlie Jiouhc of tfio Lord 
Sliall ])(', CHtaljllslicd in the top of Hie nioun- 

taiuH, 
And it Kliall Le exalted ahove tli(; liigli liillH ; 

And the people Khali thnv unto it; 
And many nationn shall come, aufl say, — 
(Jorne, and let uh go b.'iek io the mountain of the 
Lord, and lo Ihe housfj of Ihe dtoA of .Jar-oh ; 

And ho will tcaeli uh of Iii.s wajH, 

And we will walk in his paths: 

For the law shall go forth fi'oni Zifju, 

And the worrl of ihe LorH from JeTUsalem. 

And hr; sliaJl judge atnong many peoples, 

And rebuke strong nationn afai' off; . 

And. they shall heat their swordn into j^low- 

shares, 
And their spearH into prunifig-hordcH. 

Nation shall nf>t lift up Hword against nation, 
Neither shall they learn war any more. 



Hill. Ili(\y sliiiJl Hil (ivcry iiinii (iiidci' liis 
()\vii vino iiiul under his lij^-lrcui ; 

Ami nunc nIihII niiikd (iK^ni afniid : 
V\)V I lie moillli ol" (li(< Ldi'd of IiosIh liiitli 
Spoken il, lor :dl (lie pcopli-. will widic 
Ftvn'ii one In. l/ic ikiiik- oJ' IiIx (fod. 

And \V(i will \v;dk in llic niimc of (li(» 
I ,(ird our ( (od for cvt-r :ind ever. 
In lliiii diiy, snilli (ho Lord, 
Will I ttssfvifi/f her lliid. Jia,ll,(i(.Ii, — 

And I wilJ !';:illi('r her (hal. isdiivcn onl, 

And her lli:d. I have ariliclod ; and 

I will niaki" //(■/• IhaihalUdh a. rrinnanl. 

And lirr I hai was casl far olT a. slroii;;- nalioii; 

And Ihc Lord ^Jiall rcii'.n ovci' llirni 
In Mount Zion iVoin hcnccrorl h and 
IA)i'evi)r. And tluni, to/rcr {)[' l/w Jlnak, 
'V\\is stronghold oL' (ho chiughlcr oi' /ion, — 

llulo ///(■<• ^;hall il. (•oIU^^ even Ih(>y//-.s7 
/hniiitu'oit ; (III' k/H(/i/t>iii shall conio 
To the daHilhirr of Jerusalem." 
"Lot ovory Ihiu;;' thai. Iialh hi'ealh praise Iho 
Lord." 



MIHIINI)i;it,H'l'OOI). ^0!) 

VVIiiil, H;i,i(li FHuiiili ? " Ho vvns iJicir S.'ivioiir: 
III ;ill flicir ;irili(',(ini) Ik; was iiniitilcd ; 
Ami (In; ((iKjrl of lii:; |)rcS0M(!<) Hdvcd (Jiciii." 
" J''l<;() as :i. Mid (o your iiioiiul.'iiii." 

," Now gaUior lliyKcir in l-ioojct, () <l;i,ii;']/:i r of 

1l'OOJ)H," 

And (ako <lf>vvn IVo/n llif; 'willow..' your 
' liarj)H,,' 
For the diuif^lilorB wo liavc liij^dier IiopOH 
Tliaii would Ix; wiiio U) cxjufjs.s, jxtrliapH: 

Mot l.li;i,t W(; tliiid< llioiti ;i,iiy l)(U(;r 
'I'li;ui (Jif! Hons, if tin; hou.h do wcXl ; 

I'.iil, this w(; claiin /Vh- tlif; (Jiui^^litor : 
SIk! surfdy i:i iiioi'O Hj/LrUudla^ — 

Mor(; jiicljjjcd to rcli^ioiiH i'oi'voi-. 

TIiIh i» doubtloHM the rcaHon why 
She is growing daUy into favor 

NotwilhHtundirjg li';r I'<v of ohow, — 

IJf.T ' wirriplcH ' and her ' crinping-piiiH,' 
Which (A' thorrisclvfsH do no groat h;i,rrri. 

Wo count thciii nf>t 'niong licinoiiH Bins, 
'J'hoii^'h \f) iiH it rcidly do(li iiccni 

Sti'ajjgc if tijcy can iniK;h jjlf;aHiirc give ; 
Indeed, wo can not think tlicy do. 

35 



410 MISUNDERSTOOD, 

The sin consists, as we believe, 
In tlie excess they're carried to. 

All those who choose for ornament 
Just a " meek and quiet spirit " 

Harmonize with our sentiment 
Because we can appreciate it. 

We would not lightly estimate 

The folly and extravagance, 
Say nothing of the sinful waste. 

Of modern so-called elegance. 

But we are not prepared to give 

A lecture upon this subject : 
When women the higher truths receive, 

They, in turn, will not need it, — 

But will as readily come forth 
From all this flambergastedness, 

As doth the butterfly from moth 
Too glad to leave its chrysalis. 

We hope in time 'twill be the style, 

To have no style. Our medium 
A piece once wrote on heaven'' s style; 

We will insert ad finitinn. 

" Do they have, mamma, no stylo in heaven ? 
Style in di-ess you know I mean. 



MISUNDEKSTOOD. 411 

For, in the pictures which are given, 
I have not any dresses seen ; 

Nor have I heard of any but 

The flov\^ing robes of spotless white, 

Which seem, mamma, so very like 
The little gowns I wear at night. 

I think, mamma, when I go there, 

I'll only take one little gown 
Beside the one which I do wear. 

And I shall want it nice and clean. 



For you say the angels are 

So pure, mamma, it would be mean 
For any one to go, and wear 

Clothes which were not nicf; and clean. 



And, when I get there, it may be 
Some one will be kind enough 

To make a little dress for me. 
Just like what the others wear. 

Do you not think they will, mamma, 
And dress me in it every day ? 

I shall not have yow, dear mamma, 
To brush my hair, and hear me say 



412 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

The morning prayer you taught to me ; 

But, dear mamma, you soon will come, 
And then your little girl will be 

So glad and happy, and we'll roam 

In those sweet fields so bright with flowers 
You oft have read about, mamma. 

There we will find some shad}^ bowers, 
And you will read to me, mamma, — 

Just the same as you do here ; 

Only there, you sa}', mamma, 
I shall have no pain to bear. 

Oil ! it will be so sweet, mamma ! 

But you have not told me yet 

About the dress and st3de, you know. 

So if you please do not forget ; 
And I will listen now, mamma." 

*' INIy precious child, I think in heaven 

They care not much what clothes they wear ; 

And scarce a thought to them is given. 
Except to have them fresh and pure. 

'Tis words and deeds alone which tell, 
In that bright world to which we go ; 

Light and love and joy shall fill 

Our hearts ; and we shall then bestow 



MISUNDEUBTOOD. 1 1 •"» 

On oIIkth, (Ic'ir, wlio will vcc.cAVd', 

Vov li(;r(!, you know, wo Ion,"; li.'ivo hor-n 

Too ])Of)r U) iiiiU) others give, 

'riioii;';li \v(! ourselves no vvuiil, have; liiiowii, — 

Save tlial we i/ii,'^lil he filJod for 

That brir^ht and liai)[)y home above ; 

And, i'vcAul from .'ill thiB worldly oaro, 
Dwell \vIiorQ,all i.s peace and love." 

" If wliaf; yoii Ray ia true, marnina, 

And indeed I know it irt, 
I wonder wliat Moino follcH will flo 

Who now ibink onfj/ of their elothes. 

Will il, he niee for (hf^ni, ni;uiini!i? 

It Heems to me they will feel utrange, 
And nevf;r know whieh way to go : 

'J'hoii^di I i;ii[»po:-ie they're fritc, to range 

Those sar^e hright fields wliere flowers grow, 
And j)luek them too, and hiid;i will sing; 

But will they not soon learn to know 
'J'heir drc8H in not just fjuile the (hing? 

Tho::e litth; gii'ls, you know, mairima. 
Wo used to sec when I could lidc, 

Were always dresBcd ho fine Jind gay, 
I wonder if they did feel proud. 



•Ill ]MisnNi)i':i;sr()()n. 

])() you su|>]>()S(^ ^JkW Miiiik, iu:iiniii;i, 
'IMu'ir (lr('ss(\s \y\\\ hv, out ol" .slylc? 

And :ir(> Icavninij^ Ikm'O also 

Aboul. (ho words and (UmmIs llio wliilo? 

Vov 1 should lliink llioii' dear niannnas 

Would (oacli (Ikmu all alioul. Ilu'so thincfs, 

Jns((\id of giviuL;' (honi lino clolhos. 

And Honio had on sncili swoot tj^old rings 1 

Will (hoy 1)0 stylish there, mamma? 

And Avill Ihey Avear lon^' sunny curls, 
And dress in clollu's so l)ri<4'hl. and i;'a.y ? 

( )no ol" (hose dear li I ( lo ;;irls 

Said she had got no wdniniii now ; 

And her sweet faeo was v(>ry sad. 
It made me feel — 1 don"(^ know how. 

Only 1 lon<;"iMl (o n\ak{> hci- ^iad. 

r>ul I am very tired, manuna. 

So if you please I'll res(i awhile, » 

And (hen, my own dear swei't manuna. 
We'll talk again about the slyle." 

Tho precious land) awoke in heaven : 

Her ("aeo AVas beaming o'er wi(h smiles ; 

l'\u' unto \wv there had been given 
A puri> white wreath of imm(u((dles. 



MIHUN'OKHHTOOD. 415 

A whito-robcd ang(;l Hiaridinj^ by 
(jiavo lior a Kwcct and lovirij^ Hrriilo, 

7\nd placed llio vvroath upon lior Inow, 
Whispering Hoflly, " "J'Ih just in Hiylo." 

I liiist that you, my roadcrH, Jiavo 

" Lot patience have its perfect work." 

My nan'ativG I seem to leave, 
I'efon; 1 even stop to thinic; 

Though h'itle more I have to Hay 

Concerning her whose Jiistory 
Has been but blended partially 

With higher truths so full aiifj fieri, — 

Which scarce could wait for my slow pen. 

She wrote some sweet, pathetic lines, 
Or pages ; and each succeeding one 

Surpassed the former. Tender strairjs 

Of love and j;ity for her race 

Seemed breathed in accents soft and low. 
When she their waywardness did trace, 

'Twas done in love only to show 

When or how they were at fault. 

That they might see their errors too: 

And strive to purify the heart 

Oppressed with care day after day. 



416 MISUNDERSTOOD, 

Thus passed some weeks ; she had in store 

Quito 11 collection of small gems. 
II(!r tlioun'lits came freshest and most pure 
Just in tli(! early morn, when streams 

Of li-ht did lii'st bestud the sky. 

All nature seemed in unison 
With earth's rec^uest, and heaven's reply. 

Myriads of birds seemed chanting their 

Songs of praise to their Creator: 
Not one discordant note was heard ; 

All was harmony sweet and pure. 
Teach ^ls a lesson, singing bird I 

The flowers sent forth their sweet perfume, 
While tiny dcwdrops nestled there. 

Oh ! ye who dwell in palace homes. 
Dost thou e'er scent the morning air? 

If not, ye know not Avhat ye lose. 

These hours are fdled with prayer and praise. 
Ye that would be happy and wise, 

Should not reverse your nights and days. 

These calm and (juict hours became 
Unto our friend precious and dear. 

She began to write about this time 
(Unconsciously, it seemed to her) 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 417 

A book. It was upoii u thoine 

Wliich she did by oxporience 
Well understand ; at tlie same time, 

llcr controlling influence 

Had, while on earth, experienced 

A similar awakening. 
When she, however, the piece commenced. 

She little thought what was forthcoming. 

It might, perhaps, more pages cover 
Than those she had already done ; 

For at that time she had never, 
In one, exceeded pages nine. 

A week passed by ; and, at its close, 
Her piece did seem but just begun; 

She then began to grow more Avise, 
Recalling what had lier been given 

In that sweet symbol of the vine. 

Had she e'en now commenced a book? 
It niight be only supposition ; 

Still it did seem to have that look. 

At all events, she did determine 

To press right onward toward the mark 

Of her high calling, pure, divine, 
Doing well her Father's work. 



418 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

A hymn which she had learned in youth 
Constantly ran Avithin her mind; 

The first lino of another one 

Wliicli she knows not, but looks to find. 

We give you liero stanza the first : 
It doth her mind fully express. 

The other one, at her request, 
We give in full, except one verse. 

" Lo I what a cloud of witnesses 

Encompass us around ! — 
Men once like us with suffering tried, 

But noiv with glory crowned." 

" Awake, my soul, stretch every nerve, 

And press with vigor on. 
A heavenly race demands thy zeal, 

And an immortal crown. 

A cloud of witnesses around 

Hold tJu'c in full survey: 
Forget the steps alread}'^ trod, 

And onward urge thy way. 

'Tis God's all-animating voice 

That calls thee from on high ; 
'Tis his own hand presents the jmze 

To thine uplifted eye." 



MIRITNDERSTOOD. 419 

She felt as sure the voice of God 

Was callinpj her through spirit-friends, 

As if slie liad his face beheld, 

Or taken liold his Ihislily hands, — 

While day l)y duy hoi- l)()f>lc did grow, 

Both in wisdom and in stature. 
What she had written yc^stc^rday 

Oft seemed to lack tlie tone and culture 

Of to-day. She was lierself 

Surprised at thoughts whieli filled her brain, 
Thoughts which were entirely aloof 

]<>()! n things she e'er had lead or seen. 

Whatever came was scienlific; 

i*i()ven l)y the word of God, 
Oi- by itself; 'twas also brief. 

And did contain most ])recious food 

For all who could or would receive it. 

This axiom came to her mind : — 
"Brevily is tlie sf)iil of wit." 

The topics of the day she found 

Were one by one l)rought forth, discussed. 
And sentenced by her spirit-guides. 

She could only wonder, love, and trust. 
So mighty were the noble strides 



420 MISUNDERSTOOD. 

Which came through her uncultured brain. 

Subjects of which she scarce had dreamed 
With heavenly luster shone so plain, 

Her heart and voice at once exclaimed, — 

Of a truth these tliiugs are hidden 
From the wise and prudent, revealed 

Unto the babes who are bidden 

God's word of truth to place unsealed 

Before an unbclievinsr throns;' : 

Establishing the gospel truth. 
By liclping them to see the wrong 

Interpretation given forth 

B}^ learned and scholarly divines, 
INIany of whom are wondrous wise 

In their own conceits ; their confines 
Of narrowness in heaven's eyes 

Can never stand. " The sons of earth," 
Too, " are waking,'' and for themselves 

Will judge of heaven and heavenly birth. 
Leaving behind the ancient grooves 

And contracted views which bound them ; 

Pressing ever onward, upward, 
Toward their bright celestial home ; 

Receiving there their "just reward." 



MISUNDERSTOOD. 421 

The Lord our God hath surely " chosen 

The weak things of the earth " 
The mighty to confound, and given 

To "babes in Christ" his mighty truth. 

And now, dear friends, unto you all 

Who in the future may peruse 
These pages, a kind farewell. 

May heaven's truth each soul infuse 

With love to God, with love to all 
' Of God's creation everywhere ; 
Sweet peace within your beings dwell. 
Which peace the world can never share. 

May charity attend this work ; 

And may the truths which have been spoken 
Only " in love," turn from the dark 

Some erring ones, and be a token 

Of spirit-power. Whatever here 

You, friend, may find to disagree 
With your opinion, kindly forbear 

From deciding rashly is untrue. 

And, beloved, may j-ou never 

Blame those who have me influenced : 

Judge not, I pray : believe, rather, 
I may have them, you may have me, 
Misunderstood. 

86 



